Eight idols across three Hindu temples were vandalized last week in Bangladesh's Mymensingh and Dinajpur districts. The attacks, which have sparked widespread concern, highlight growing communal tensions in the country.
Temples Targeted in Mymensingh and Dinajpur
Two temples in Mymensingh’s Haluaghat sub-district were attacked on consecutive nights. At the Bonderpara Temple in Shakuai union, two idols under construction were damaged, confirmed Abul Khayer, Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Haluaghat Police Station.
Similarly, at the Polashkanda Kali Temple in the Beeldora union, another idol was vandalized, adding to the community's distress.
In Dinajpur’s Birganj sub-district, five idols at the Jharbari Shashan Kali Temple were discovered damaged earlier in the week. Janardan Roy, president of the temple committee, expressed shock, stating, “We’ve never experienced anything like this before.”
Arrests and Investigations Underway
Police have apprehended two suspects in connection with these incidents. In Mymensingh, 27-year-old Alal Uddin admitted to the vandalism at Polashkanda Kali Temple and was remanded in custody after a court hearing. Another suspect, 37-year-old Azharul, was arrested for the damage at Bonderpara Temple. Investigations into both cases are ongoing.
Similar acts of violence have occurred in other districts. In Sunamganj, four individuals were arrested for vandalizing Hindu properties. Additionally, on November 29, a mob targeted three temples in Chattogram, reportedly shouting slogans related to ongoing protests against Chinmoy Krishna Das, a former ISKCON member charged with sedition.
Broader Concerns of Escalating Violence
These incidents reflect a worrying trend of increasing attacks on minority communities in Bangladesh. According to Kirti Vardhan Singh, India’s Minister of State for External Affairs, "2,200 cases of violence against Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh were reported by December 2024."
The situation has worsened since the ousting of Sheikh Hasina’s government in August 2024, following widespread student-led protests. These demonstrations initially focused on government job quotas but quickly escalated into violent unrest, resulting in over 600 deaths. Sheikh Hasina fled to India after her removal, and Muhammad Yunus assumed leadership under an interim government.
India Raises Diplomatic Concerns
India has strongly condemned the rising violence and urged Bangladesh to ensure the safety of minority communities. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri described the attacks as "regrettable" during meetings in Dhaka, emphasizing the need for protective measures.
Minister Singh, in a statement to the Lok Sabha, highlighted India’s serious concerns. “The Government of Bangladesh must take all necessary steps to safeguard its minorities and uphold their welfare,” he said.
Strained Bilateral Relations
The violence has strained the traditionally strong ties between India and Bangladesh. Under Sheikh Hasina, both nations enjoyed a collaborative relationship, particularly in areas like trade, security, and minority protection. However, the transition to Muhammad Yunus’s interim administration has seen growing tension.
Bangladeshi authorities have reported 88 cases of violence against minorities since August, including temple attacks, arrests of minority leaders, and mob violence. These incidents, coupled with India’s diplomatic objections, have further complicated the relationship between the two neighbors.