Jama Masjid Shahi Imam Calls Out Reprehensible Treatment of Hindus in Bangladesh

The Shahi Imam of Delhi's Jama Masjid has condemned the alleged mistreatment of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh. He urged Bangladesh's interim government to act swiftly to prevent such incidents. Concerns have been raised by India about attacks on minorities, particularly Hindus, in Bangladesh since Sheikh Hasina stepped down as prime minister in August after prolonged student-led protests.

Syed Ahmed Bukhari, the Shahi Imam, stated, "As a credible neighbour, a close ally of Bangladesh, and a custodian of shared cultural heritage, I expect the current head of Bangladesh, Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel laureate, to take immediate steps to curb any injustices against the Hindu minority. Yunus should ensure that his international reputation remains untarnished," citing recent developments in Bangladesh.

Political Dynamics and Minority Rights

Bukhari highlighted that alternative political forces with differing ideologies are now in power in Bangladesh. These groups have gained popular support following Hasina's departure. He noted that these forces often hold adversarial views regarding Indo-Bangladesh relations. The Shahi Imam emphasised that Islam and its jurisprudence inherently oppose any form of prejudice or injustice against minorities in Bangladesh.

Since Bangladesh's inception, India's leaders, media, and civil society have maintained strong ties with Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, his daughter Sheikh Hasina, and their party, the Awami League. Bukhari pointed out that Bangladesh has consistently supported India in regional diplomacy and international affairs within the Muslim world.

Historical Ties and Recent Developments

Following Hasina's exit to India, unrest erupted in Bangladesh targeting both Muslim and non-Muslim supporters of the Awami League. Bukhari alleged that this backlash was a result of her removal. He stated that until now, these issues were considered internal matters for Bangladesh. However, he condemned ongoing injustices and unilateral actions against the Hindu minority as unacceptable.

Bukhari stressed that there is no justification for such actions against minorities. He urged the Bangladeshi government to recognise India's role in its liberation and development process. He also highlighted India's unparalleled history of support for millions of Bangladeshi refugees.

The Shahi Imam called for immediate action to halt these injustices. He reiterated the importance of maintaining harmonious relations between India and Bangladesh while ensuring minority rights are protected.