In Bangladesh's bustling port city, Chattogram, communal tensions have intensified. Following unrest sparked by a provocative social media post, security forces have launched major operations against the minority Hindu community. This incident occurred on November 5 in the Hajari Lane area, when Usman Ali, a member of the radical Islamic group Jamaat-e-Islami, posted derogatory remarks about Hinduism and the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) on social media.
In response, local Hindus gathered outside Ali's shop to protest the offensive content, leading to clashes between the two communities. The situation escalated further with the deployment of security forces, including the Bangladeshi army, to restore order.
Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasrin shared a video of the operation on social media, writing, "Today in Chattogram's Hazari Lane, it's Hindus versus the army."
What Accusations Were Made Against Locals?
A senior officer from the Chattogram Metropolitan Police stated, "Authorities faced fierce resistance, with protesters allegedly throwing bricks and acid. Nine officers were injured, one with acid burns."
According to the Dhaka Tribune, by Tuesday, authorities had registered cases against 582 people, arresting 49. In the meantime, leaders from the Hindu community accused security forces of unfairly targeting Hindu residents, alleging indiscriminate attacks despite participation from members of both communities.
Historically a Hindu-majority business area, Hazari Lane remains under heavy surveillance, with many residents reportedly unable to leave due to the ongoing operations. Reports have surfaced of police conducting house-to-house searches in the area.
Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, leading an interim administration, condemned the attacks and committed to working with community leaders to ensure the protection of Hindus.
An underlying anxiety about minority safety prevails in Bangladesh, following a pattern of violence against Hindus that began with Sheikh Hasina's ousting. The Hindu community, about 8% of Bangladesh's population, has historically backed Hasina's Awami League party. This new wave of tension adds to the complex socio-political fabric of the region, demanding urgent attention and resolution.
