Indian-American body urges US leaders to intervene in growing attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh

Raising concerns over rising attacks on minorities in Bangladesh, an Indian American body urged US President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump to intervene in the matter.

The group, Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS), claimed India's neighboring country is turning into a “radicalized Islamic state.”

The president of FIIDS, Khanderao Kand has called upon the two leaders to address the “arrest of former ISKCON leader Chinmoy Krishna Das and the continued attacks against Hindus and other minorities.”

"Bangladesh is rapidly descending into a radicalized Islamic all under the watch of the US, the State Department, and the UN who must act now to restore democracy and protect minorities. I request not only President Biden but would urge President Trump and his transition team to give priority to the restoration of peace and protect minorities in Bangladesh," Kand said.

He emphasized that the US, the State Department and the UN must act now to restore democracy and protect minorities in Bangladesh.

"Bangladesh's progress as a democratic and inclusive society depends on safeguarding the rights of all its citizens, including its most vulnerable populations. We trust that your leadership will champion these values and help restore hope for those who continue to face oppression and displacement," said Kand in a separate letter to Joe Biden.

A report by FIIDS has revealed that following the collapse of the previous Sheikh Hasina government on Aug 5 this year, the Hindu minority community has faced over 200 attacks.

Multiple temples and other religious sites belonging to the minority communities have also been targeted by the attackers.

Recently, Chinmoy Krishna Das, a Hindu priest and former leader of the ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) was arrested in a sedition case. He was denied bail by the court, triggering widespread protests across the country.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of External Affairs has expressed concern over the denial of bail.

In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said, “We have noted with deep concern the arrest and denial of bail to Shri Chinmoy Krishna Das, who is also the spokesperson of Bangladesh Sammilit Sanatan Jagran Jote.”

"This incident follows the multiple attacks on Hindus and other minorities by extremist elements in Bangladesh", the statement read.

The MEA also noted that "it is unfortunate that while the perpetrators of these incidents remain at large, charges should be pressed against a religious leader presenting legitimate demands through peaceful gatherings."

"We urge Bangladesh authorities to ensure the safety and security of Hindus and all minorities, including their right of freedom of peaceful assembly and expression", it said.