World News: In a troubling escalation, Bangladeshi security forces reportedly targeted Hindu communities in Chittagong following protests against a Muslim traders derogatory social media post about the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) and Sanatana Dharma. The situation in Hazari Goli, Chittagongs prominent commercial area, grew tense after the trader, identified as Osman Mollah, posted a message labeling ISKCON a “terrorist organization.” This inflammatory post prompted protests outside his shop, leading to a severe law enforcement response.Traders Post Sparks Immediate Backlash and ProtestsThe controversy began when Osman Mollahs Facebook post, in which he called ISKCON a terrorist group, drew outrage from Hindu residents in Chittagong. As protestors gathered outside Mollahs shop demanding action, he was reportedly moved to safe custody for his own protection. The protests, however, did not dissipate and instead escalated as more community members joined the demonstration.A huge disturbance is going on in Chittagongs Hazari Gull after demonstration against FB post calling ISCKON a terrorist org.Bangladesh Army, Police and Radicals have started attacking Hindus and their houses. Even CCTVs are being broken to hide the slaughter of hindus pic.twitter.com/m269rg1mWC— Megh Updates 🚨™ (@MeghUpdates) November 5, 2024Joint Police and Army Operation Targets Hindu CommunityBy Tuesday night, Bangladeshi security forces, including joint teams of police and army units, launched an operation targeting Hindu establishments in Hazari Goli. Videos circulating on social media capture scenes of heavy-handed tactics used during the operation. Local reporter Saifuddin Tuhin, speaking to news agency ANI, stated, “A local Muslim youth reportedly uploaded a post on Facebook criticizing ISKCON. The angry Hindu community people protested and clashed with the law-enforcing agencies…[who] conducted a joint operation comprising police and army.”The Hindu community claims that security forces acted with excessive force, reportedly even resorting to blank gunshots. Local leaders stated that acid-like substances were allegedly thrown during the clash. The nights operation resulted in the arrest of around 100 individuals, though many were released after preliminary questioning. The blackout during the raid has complicated efforts to verify specifics of the incident.Ongoing Tensions Surrounding Calls to Ban ISKCON in BangladeshThe recent altercations are part of a broader movement against ISKCON, with several groups and individuals, including the Inqilab Manch and editor Mahmudur Rahman, calling for a ban on the organization. In response, ISKCON leaders in Bangladesh have demanded an apology from Rahman and urged the Bangladeshi government to protect their right to religious freedom.ISKCON Spokesperson Seeks PM Modis HelpIn light of these tensions, ISKCON spokesperson Radharaman Das has reached out to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to intervene. Expressing grave concerns, Das stated, “Very disturbing news coming from Chittagong Hindus have been attacked there. The Army came in and sided with the other community…We would request PM Modi to intervene in this matter.” He further noted that ISKCONs recent efforts have united Hindus in Bangladesh, a movement that may be a factor in the heightened opposition from some groups.Bangladeshs Hindu Population and Political LandscapeBangladeshs Hindu minority, which makes up roughly 8% of the countrys population, has traditionally supported Sheikh Hasinas Awami League. However, the recent turmoil, combined with the backlash from violent anti-quota protests, poses additional challenges for the government. Notably, Hasina recently fled to India amid escalating political unrest, and an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus has been established.
