A significant protest demonstration was held at Randhir Verma Chowk in Dhanbad on Sunday, drawing a large crowd to condemn the alleged ongoing atrocities against the Hindu minority community in neighbouring Bangladesh.
Unified Front of Hindu Organisations
The protest was organised by the Sanatan Dharma Jagran Samiti, Dhanbad, and saw a massive turnout from various Hindu organisations, social groups, and citizens. The demonstration featured strong participation from several affiliate bodies of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Prominent among these were the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Bajrang Dal, and the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). Hundreds of workers from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) also joined the sit-in, alongside members of various social organisations and educationists, all expressing deep resentment against the Bangladesh government.
Political Leaders and Speakers Voice Concern
Addressing the gathering, Dhanbad MP Dulu Mahato stated that the atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh would not be tolerated. He asserted that Hindu organisations across India are united on this critical issue and will continue to raise their voice until the Bangladesh government is compelled to ensure the safety and dignity of the Hindu community. He called upon the Indian government to take the matter with utmost seriousness and intervene at the appropriate diplomatic level.
Other prominent figures present at the protest included former MP P N Singh, MLA Raj Sinha, and former MLA Aparna Sen Gupta, all of whom expressed their solidarity with the cause.
Allegations of a Systematic Conspiracy
Eminent educationist Pramod Kumar Jha, while speaking to the gathering, made serious allegations. He claimed that since May 2024, members of the Hindu community in Bangladesh have been subjected to inhuman treatment as part of a well-planned conspiracy. He cited repeated reports of attacks on temples, looting of property, and brutal killings, labelling it a matter of grave concern. Jha emphasised that this is not merely a communal issue but a blatant violation of fundamental human rights.
Memorandum to the President and Future Plans
Following the speeches, the protestors submitted a memorandum addressed to the President of India to the Deputy Commissioner of Dhanbad. The memorandum urgently called upon the Central Government to:
- Intervene diplomatically with Bangladesh.
- Exert pressure on the Bangladesh government to stop the alleged atrocities immediately.
- Ensure the protection and security of minority communities.
The speakers collectively demanded that the Indian government adopt a firm stand at international forums to safeguard the lives, property, and religious freedom of Hindus living in Bangladesh. They issued a warning, stating that if the alleged persecution does not cease, the movement would be intensified and expanded to a national level in the coming days.
