Bangladesh Election: Clerics’ Incendiary Speeches Target Hindus Ahead of Polls

DHAKA: With Bangladesh’s parliamentary elections scheduled for February 17, rising communal tensions have sparked concern as extremist clerics openly incite violence against Hindus. In recent weeks, at least five Hindus have been killed, and dozens of homes have been burned or vandalized, highlighting a disturbing pattern of targeted attacks against the minority community.

Hate Speech on Social Media

Multiple videos circulating on social media show clerics making inflammatory statements against Hindus, urging followers not to vote for Hindu candidates or parties. In one viral clip, a cleric responds to a question about whether it is permissible to vote for Hindu candidates, saying: “No, it is absolutely not allowed. Voting for Hindus or ‘kafirs’ is haram [forbidden in Islam].”

Another video shows clerics openly threatening Hindu religious sites and institutions. One extremist is seen calling for the destruction of all temples and idols in Bangladesh, declaring: “No Hindu can remain in Bangladesh, no ISKCON can survive here. The brokers in Delhi should go back to Delhi.”

Escalating Violence Against Minorities

These incidents follow a spike in communal attacks since the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government in August 2024. Over the past month and a half, extremist mobs have murdered several Hindu men, set fire to homes, and forcibly evicted families. The violence has drawn international concern, with multiple countries condemning attacks on religious minorities.

India’s Response

India has urged the Bangladeshi government to take firm action against communal violence. Randeep Jayswal, spokesperson for the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, stated: “We are witnessing a disturbing pattern of repeated attacks on minorities, their homes, and businesses by extremists. Such incidents must be addressed swiftly and decisively.” He further noted that linking communal violence to personal or political disputes only exacerbates fear and insecurity among minority communities.

As Bangladesh approaches elections, observers warn that unchecked extremism and hate speech could further inflame tensions, endangering minority communities and undermining democratic processes.