Muhammad Yunus Condemns Heinous Attacks on Minorities in Bangladesh – Warns of Potential Sabotage
Muhammad Yunus Condemns Heinous Attacks on Minorities in Bangladesh – Warns of Potential Sabotage. In a powerful statement, Nobel laureate and interim leader of Bangladesh, Muhammad Yunus, has condemned the recent surge in violence against minority communities in the country, particularly Hindus.
Describing the attacks as “heinous,” Yunus urged the nation, especially its youth, to protect the rights and safety of all citizens, regardless of their religious affiliation. His remarks come at a critical time when Bangladesh is grappling with political unrest and widespread violence.
A Call for Unity and Protection
During an address at Begum Rokeya University in Rangpur, Yunus questioned the exclusion and targeting of minority communities, asking, “Are they not the people of this country?” He appealed to the students, reminding them of their crucial role in safeguarding the nation.
“You have been able to save this country; can’t you save some families?” Yunus urged. He emphasized the shared history and struggles of all Bangladeshis, stating, “No one can harm them. They are my brothers; we fought together, and we will stay together.”
A Warning Against Sabotage
Yunus, who was called upon by student leaders to head the interim government following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina’s administration, warned that the attacks on minorities might be part of a larger scheme to destabilize the country.
He cautioned that these acts of violence could be a form of “sabotage” by those who aim to “undermine their progress.” Yunus encouraged the nation to remain vigilant, stating, “There are many standing by to make your efforts futile. Don’t fall this time.”
The Widespread Impact of Violence
The recent political upheaval in Bangladesh has led to a troubling rise in attacks on minority communities. According to reports from the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council and the Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad, there have been at least 205 documented attacks on minority communities across 52 districts since the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government. The violence has forced thousands of Bangladeshi Hindus to flee to neighboring India in search of safety and security.
Minorities in Bangladesh – A Vulnerable Population
Hindus, who represent the largest minority group in Bangladesh, make up approximately 8% of the country’s population. With about 13 million Hindus in a nation of 170 million people, this community has historically faced challenges in a predominantly Muslim country. The recent violence has only exacerbated their fears and struggles, as many seek refuge across the border to escape persecution.
Conclusion
Muhammad Yunus condemnation of the attacks on minority communities is a critical reminder of the need for unity and protection in times of crisis. His words echo the sentiments of many who believe that the strength of a nation lies in its ability to protect all its citizens, regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds. As Bangladesh navigates this period of unrest, the call for solidarity and vigilance against those who seek to sow discord remains more important than ever.