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A significant protest march took place in New Delhi on Tuesday, targeting the Bangladesh Embassy. Organized by the Civil Society of Delhi, the demonstration brought together hundreds of participants from over 200 social, religious, professional, and cultural organizations. The event, coinciding with World Human Rights Day, served as a powerful statement against the alleged atrocities and genocide targeting Hindus and other religious minorities in Bangladesh. The protestors' primary concern centered on the systematic persecution and violence inflicted upon these communities, highlighting a deeply troubling situation demanding urgent international attention.
The march, originating from the Prime Minister Museum at Teen Murti Chowk, proceeded to the Bangladesh Embassy, where a memorandum was submitted to the High Commissioner. This memorandum explicitly acknowledged the historically strong ties between India and Bangladesh, notably emphasizing India's crucial support during Bangladesh's 1971 liberation struggle. However, it sharply contrasted this historical context with the current deterioration of conditions for religious minorities, particularly since August 5th. The memorandum directly called for the immediate cessation of violence, urging the protection of human rights and the fundamental right to peaceful coexistence for all religious groups, including Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians residing in Bangladesh.
Prominent figures from various sectors participated in the march and addressed the gathering. Speakers included Sadhvi Ritambhara, Keshav Murari from ISKCON, Ramakant Dwivedi from the India Central Asia Foundation, former Delhi Police commissioner SN Srivastava, former Indian high commissioner to Bangladesh Veena Sikri, Buddhist leader Rahul Bhante, Supreme Court advocate Priyadarshini, writer and activist Rudranil Ghosh, and former Kolkata high court judge and BJP MP Abhijit Ganguly. Their speeches underscored the gravity of the situation, demanding accountability from the Bangladesh government and urging the international community to actively condemn and address the ongoing human rights violations.
The protest highlighted specific instances of persecution, including the unjust imprisonment and alleged torture of ISKCON Sannyasi Pujya Shri Chinmay Krishna Das. This case serves as a stark example of the systematic targeting of religious leaders and figures within the minority communities. The speakers also voiced strong criticism against the dismissal of the reported atrocities as mere 'media propaganda,' emphasizing that such a dismissive approach only emboldens perpetrators and allows the suffering of vulnerable populations to continue unabated. The protest called for an immediate end to all forms of violence and persecution, with a clear emphasis on safeguarding the fundamental human rights of religious minorities.
The memorandum and the speeches consistently stressed the urgent need for international intervention. The protestors called upon international organizations, governments, and human rights bodies to actively engage with the Bangladesh government, demanding concrete action to protect the religious minorities and ensure their safety and freedom. The call for the release of ISKCON Sannyasi Pujya Shri Chinmay Krishna Das served as a focal point, symbolizing the wider struggle for justice and the cessation of all forms of persecution. The speakers emphasized the importance of upholding religious freedom and tolerance, principles enshrined in international human rights law and the UN Charter.
Beyond the immediate calls for action, the protest served as a reminder of the historical and cultural connections between India and Bangladesh. While acknowledging the positive aspects of this relationship, the protest powerfully demonstrated the imperative to address the grave human rights concerns in Bangladesh, particularly those affecting religious minorities. The participation of individuals from diverse backgrounds – religious leaders, legal professionals, social activists, and former government officials – underscores the broad-based concern over the situation and the shared commitment to advocating for justice and human rights.
The protest in New Delhi represents a significant development in the international response to the allegations of persecution in Bangladesh. It puts pressure on the Bangladesh government to address the concerns raised and on the international community to take a more active role in safeguarding the rights of religious minorities. The enduring implications of this protest will largely depend on the actions taken by the Bangladesh government and the level of international engagement in response to the escalating human rights crisis. The global community faces a crucial decision: to remain silent or to stand in solidarity with those facing persecution and injustice.
Source: Protest march at Bangladesh Embassy against atrocities on Hindus in Bangladesh