Rangpur, Bangladesh—In a disturbing escalation of human rights abuses, peaceful minority protesters traveling to a planned demonstration in Rangpur have been met with violence and systematic suppression. The protest, led by Chinmaya Prabhu, a religious leader turned human rights advocate, aimed to highlight the ongoing pogrom against Bangladesh’s minorities, particularly Hindus. However, the events leading up to the protest reveal a grim reality for minority rights in the country.
Violent Attacks by Extremist Groups
In Kaunia subdistrict, members of the Islamic Chhatra Andolon launched violent attacks on protesters. Videos circulating online depict protesters being forcibly removed from buses, brutally beaten, and left bloodied. In one video, extremists can be heard threatening to burn buses while accusing minority passengers of being “Indian agents.” This unprovoked violence showcases the hostile environment minorities face daily.
Attacks on Minority Protesters
Police Blockades
In another video, law enforcement officials are seen actively blocking buses and caravans carrying protesters to Rangpur. By preventing them from reaching the protest site, the police violated the fundamental right to peaceful assembly. Witnesses report that entire groups of minority protesters were stranded, unable to continue their journey due to these deliberate roadblocks.
Military Intimidation
Adding to the chaos, footage reveals members of the Bangladesh Army pulling passengers from buses heading to the protest. This has raised serious concerns about the misuse of state power to intimidate and suppress minority voices. Such actions further highlight the systemic challenges minorities face in asserting their rights.
Leader Under Threat
Chinmaya Prabhu, who has become a prominent voice for minority rights in Bangladesh, continues to face threats and intimidation. Reports suggest attempts by local authorities to arrest him and disrupt the protest altogether. Despite this, Prabhu remains steadfast in his mission to bring attention to the plight of marginalized communities.
Global Appeal
The violent suppression of peaceful protests in Bangladesh underscores a larger issue of systemic oppression and discrimination against minorities. Activists and human rights organizations are calling on the Bangladeshi government to take immediate action to protect minorities and uphold their constitutional rights.
Additionally, an appeal has been extended to the international community to intervene and demand accountability for these violations. Human rights observers urge the United Nations to deploy independent monitors to investigate these incidents and ensure the safety of vulnerable communities.
