Ganesh Kendale
India on Saturday raised “serious concerns” with Bangladesh over the attack on a Puja mandap in Tantibazar, Dhaka, as well as the theft of a crown gifted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the revered Jeshoreshwari Kali temple at Satkhira, stating that there has been “a systematic pattern of desecration and damage to temples and deities”.
Calling the events deplorable, the external affairs ministry said: “We have noted with serious concern the attack on a Puja mandap in Tantibazar, Dhaka and the theft at the revered Jeshoreshwari Kali temple at Satkhira.These are deplorable events. They follow a systematic pattern of desecration and damage to temples and deities that we have witnessed over several days now. We call upon the Government of Bangladesh to ensure the safety and security of Hindus and all minorities and their places of worship, especially during this auspicious festival time.”
The recent attacks on Hindu places of worship in Bangladesh, have raised significant alarm among the Hindu community and observers alike. These acts are part of a troubling pattern of desecration and violence against Hindu temples and deities that has intensified during the Durga Puja festival.
The attack on the Puja mandap in Tantibazar has been described as part of a broader trend of violence against Hindus, particularly during significant religious events like Durga Puja. Reports indicate that this year alone, idols have been damaged in numerous districts across Bangladesh, with 19 incidents reported in just the last two weeks.
The attacks follow a series of violent incidents that have plagued religious minorities in Bangladesh. Over recent years, there have been numerous reports documenting attacks on temples, vandalism of idols, and threats against worshippers. In 2022 alone, there were 12 recorded attacks on religious minorities, leading to significant injuries and damage to property. The situation has reportedly worsened since the political upheaval following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led government, with many Hindus feeling increasingly unsafe during their religious observances.
In response to these incidents, there have been calls for heightened security measures from Bangladesh government officials. The Bangladeshi army has announced plans to enhance security for Durga Puja celebrations, deploying police and other forces to protect worshippers.
