Recent violence in Bangladesh has led to the targeted attacks on Hindu temples, businesses, and homes, amid ongoing political unrest. The violence began following protests against a controversial government quota system but escalated into attacks on religious minorities, particularly Hindus. Mobs have vandalized and set fire to multiple Hindu temples, including an ISKCON temple in Meherpur, where idols of deities were destroyed.
Additionally, Hindu councilors have been killed, and several Hindu businesses and homes were looted.
This violence is part of a broader surge in tensions, exacerbated by the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the formation of an interim government. The Hindu community, which constitutes a small but significant minority in Bangladesh, has faced increasing threats, and there are concerns about further escalation, especially in areas with large Hindu populations. Despite some reports of Muslim clerics and community members offering protection to temples, the attacks have caused fear and unrest among Hindus.
The situation has drawn attention from neighboring India, with concerns about potential refugee influxes, as many Hindus are fleeing to India to escape violence. The scale of these attacks has prompted international calls for intervention to protect religious minorities in Bangladesh.
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