Press Xpress asked the U.S. State Department about the forced recitation of Qur’anic verses during Durga Puja by Islamic groups in Bangladesh and the protection of minority rights. In response, the State Department emphasized its commitment to religious freedom and welcomed measures by the Bangladeshi government to ensure safety for minority communities.
In recent months, Bangladesh has experienced significant political and social upheaval, particularly directed toward minority communities. With the interim government led by Dr. Yunus, there have been increasing reports of attacks on minorities and a rise in religious intolerance. These incidents come at a time when the nation is already grappling with political instability, and concerns about freedom of speech, assembly, and religious expression are escalating.
Recent reports have highlighted a surge in violence and intimidation against the Hindu community, with attacks on places of worship and cultural events. Bangladesh’s largest Hindu festival, Durga Puja, which symbolizes communal harmony and cultural celebration, was disrupted this year by radical groups. Incidents of forced recitations of Qur’anic verses and Islamic chants during Puja celebrations, allegedly by members of groups like Hizb ut-Tahrir and Jamaat-e-Islami, have left the Hindu community in fear. These violations are part of a broader pattern of religious and sentiment-based attacks that have raised alarms both domestically and internationally.
We remain concerned by any instances of violence or intolerance: US
Against this backdrop, Press Xpress raised an important question about U.S. stance on Religious Freedom Concerns in Bangladesh. Press Xpress asked to Mathew Miller, “How does the U.S. view this, and will it engage with the Bangladeshi government to protect religious freedom and minority rights?”
Mathew Miller received the question and later on The U.S. State Department followed up on the query with a formal response. It response reiterated the U.S. government’s commitment to supporting religious freedom and human rights in Bangladesh, stating “We have seen media reports that Bangladeshi police arrested individuals in response to their alleged actions at a Durga Puja celebration.”
The U.S. affirmed supports for religious freedom and fundamental democratic rights, and asserted that the country regularly communicates to partners, including Bangladesh’s Interim Government.
“We remain concerned by any instances of violence or intolerance directed toward members of minority communities” the U.S stated, adding that the country welcomes “measures taken by the Bangladeshi Interim Government to ensure safety and security for all.”
The U.S. State Department’s response reinforces the administration’s position on upholding religious freedom and protecting minority rights. While the statement refrained from directly commenting on the specific incident beyond referring to local law enforcement, it underscored the need for ongoing protection of human rights in Bangladesh.
Lastly, the recent turmoil and the management of the nation serve as a reminder that Bangladesh’s future requires the safeguarding of all its citizens, regardless of religious or ethnic identity.
