In protest against the alleged disrespect of Lord Ram, the Hindu community in Bangladesh held a torchlight procession in Dhaka on Friday evening. The demonstration began at the Shahbagh intersection and proceeded through Shahbagh square to the National Press Club via Moteshwar Bhaban. Participants chanted slogans including 'Jai Shri Ram' and others.
Background of the Protest
Students alleged that a violent mob recently desecrated a statue of Lord Ram by placing a shoe on it, which they consider an insult and affront to the Hindu religion. The community issued a 72-hour ultimatum, threatening to submit a memorandum to the Ministry of Religious Affairs on Sunday if the culprit is not arrested. They also announced plans for a meeting with the Prime Minister and various rallies and events.
Incident at Polash Bari
The protest stemmed from an incident at Polash Bari in Gaibandha district, northern Bangladesh, where construction of a Ram temple with an 81-foot-tall statue of Lord Ram was underway. Extremist groups allegedly caused unrest, halted construction, and threw shoes at the statue. The Hindu community filed a case, but no suspects have been arrested, leading to deep dissatisfaction and demands for immediate action.
Community leaders asserted that they will build a Ram temple in all 64 districts of Bangladesh, not just at Polash Bari.
Separate Programs on Friday
Two separate protest programs were held in Dhaka on Friday morning by two factions of the Hindu Mahajot organization. One event was a human chain in front of the National Press Club, and the other was a press conference at the Dhaka Reporters' Unity.
The National Committee for Puja Celebrations announced a nationwide protest program on Saturday in response to the alleged disrespect.
