'Where Do We Go Now?': Fear of mob Attacks Leaves Bangladesh Hindus Pleading For Help

Dhaka: The Hindu minority community in Bangladesh is living in restlessness and fear these days. In recent weeks, reports of mob violence and attacks have made the atmosphere even heavier. Many people like Dipu Chandra Das and Amrit Mondal have become victims of mob violence, which has created an atmosphere of insecurity in the Hindu community.

After the incidents of fighting, vandalism, and murder at some places, many people are now thinking that the situation might be taken away from them. In such an environment, some Hindus have appealed to India to open the border. They say that if violence continues to increase, they will have no option but to leave Bangladesh.

What are people most afraid of?

Many families say that while leaving the house, they fear that some rumor or small dispute might turn into a mob attack. Some people are hesitant in sending their children to school. Small shopkeepers say that the fear of riots and mob violence is outweighing their livelihood. After the recent murder of two people, fear has come to the fore more openly. Many people believe that these are not just two incidents but a sign that the environment is changing.

Why the appeal to India to open the border?

Some families said they would like to flee to India if the situation continued to worsen. In their view, India is a neighboring country where at least there will be less threat to their identity. They say that they do not want India to settle them; they only want that there should be a way out if the situation goes out of control.

How is politics increasing this fear?

Discussions about changes in the politics of Bangladesh are also fueling this fear. The possibility of the strengthening of opposition parties and change of power has increased the concern of minorities. Some people are openly saying that they fear that if the new government comes, their security will weaken. However, on the other hand, some local Muslim citizens are also speaking against the violence and appealing for peace. This also shows that the entire society does not support this situation.

What's next?

India has officially expressed concern, but no decision has been taken yet on any demand like opening the border. The Bangladesh government says they are taking steps to protect minorities. But people living on the ground say that before papers and statements, they want peace in the streets of their neighborhood.