Strong protests erupted in the Indian city of Siliguri on Wednesday, with demonstrators demanding immediate and strict action from the Bangladeshi government over the brutal murder of a Hindu youth in the neighboring country. The protest was organized by the Bengal-Bangia Hindu Mahamancha, a socio-cultural organization.
Outrage Over Cross-Border Killing
The demonstration, held at the Darjeeling More area in Siliguri, was a direct response to the killing of Partha Das, a 24-year-old Hindu youth, in Bangladesh's Panchagarh district on July 2, 2024. Protestors expressed deep anguish and anger over the incident, which they described as part of a disturbing pattern of violence against the minority Hindu community in Bangladesh.
Carrying placards and raising slogans, the members of the Mahamancha called upon the authorities in Dhaka to ensure the safety and security of religious minorities. The protestors emphasized that such targeted violence creates fear and insecurity among Hindu families living across the border.
Demands for Justice and Security
The core demand from the protesting organization was clear and unequivocal. They urged the Bangladeshi government to take strict and exemplary action against the perpetrators involved in Partha Das's murder. The protest was not just about seeking justice for one individual but was framed as a call to halt the ongoing persecution of the Hindu minority in Bangladesh.
Leaders at the rally stated that the incident in Panchagarh is not isolated. They referenced a series of attacks on Hindu communities, including incidents of vandalism at temples and properties, which they claim have increased in recent years. The protest served as a platform to voice these broader concerns from across the border.
A Call for Diplomatic Intervention
The demonstration in Siliguri also carried a message for the Indian government. The Bengal-Bangia Hindu Mahamancha appealed to Indian authorities to raise the issue diplomatically with Bangladesh. They stressed the need for the Indian government to use its diplomatic channels to pressure Dhaka into taking concrete steps to protect its minority populations and uphold secular principles.
The organization highlighted the historical and cultural ties between the people of West Bengal and Bangladesh, arguing that peace and security for Hindus in Bangladesh are essential for maintaining harmonious cross-border relations. The protest underscored the emotional and communal linkages that transcend international boundaries in this region.
As the protest concluded, the organizers vowed to continue their advocacy until justice is served and tangible improvements in the security situation are witnessed. The event in Siliguri has brought a grim incident from across the border into the national spotlight in India, reflecting the deep-seated concerns of communities with familial and cultural connections to Bangladesh.
