Malaysia MP Calls for Strong Condemnation of Violence Against Hindus by Bangladesh Government and Scholars
Calls for Action and Reflection Amid Escalating Attacks on Hindu Minorities
Malaysia’s Opposition MP Wan Ahmad Fayhsal has called on Bangladesh’s interim government and influential scholars to strongly condemn the ongoing violence against Hindus in Bangladesh. In an exclusive interview with CNN-News18, Fayhsal emphasized the need for adherence to Quranic and Prophetic principles, which mandate the protection of non-Muslims’ rights under Muslim-majority rule. He highlighted that Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had previously engaged with Bangladesh’s interim head, Mohammad Yunus, and expressed hope that the issue of violence against Hindus was addressed privately during their discussions.
Fayhsal urged Muslim communities, particularly in Bangladesh, to follow historical examples of tolerance, such as Emir Abd Qadir al-Jazairi, who protected Christians during the 1860 Damascus riots. He warned against using religion as a pretext for inflicting injustices on non-Muslims.
Recent Attacks and Government Response
Since the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government on August 5, the Hindu community in Bangladesh has reportedly faced attacks and threats at 278 locations across 48 districts. The Bangladesh National Hindu Grand Alliance has condemned these acts as assaults on Hinduism, asserting their right to safety and security in the country.
On August 8, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, who assumed the role of Chief Advisor of the interim government, met with distressed Hindu community members at Dhakeshwari Temple. Yunus urged patience and understanding, promising to address the community’s concerns at the next cabinet meeting. The Hindu Grand Alliance has called for several measures, including a judicial inquiry into the attacks, a minority protection act, and the restoration of damaged temples and homes. They also demanded a public investigation into past abuses and the establishment of a dedicated minority ministry.
Yunus reiterated the commitment to equal rights for all and requested the Hindu community’s support and patience, pledging that the interim government would be judged based on its actions.
(With inputs from agency)
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