Archive · 31 Jul 2025
Bangladesh Sees Rise in Violence Against Minorities Under Yunus
After a change in leadership, some groups are targeting Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh.
There have been many attacks on people and their homes, and religious groups are becoming more powerful.
Some people are afraid and want to leave the country.
International organizations are worried about the situation and are asking for more protection for everyone.
Attacks and persecution of Hindus and other minorities have increased since August 2024.
The interim administration, led by Muhammad Yunus, has been accused of empowering Islamist-jihadist militants.
Reports include incidents of violence, including murders, attacks on places of worship, and property destruction.
Radical groups like Hefazat-e-Islam and Jamaat-e-Islami are gaining influence.
International organizations and local groups have raised concerns about human rights violations and religious freedom.
- Who
- Hindus and other religious minorities, Islamist-jihadist militants, and the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus.
- What
- An increase in violence and persecution targeting religious minorities, particularly Hindus, in Bangladesh following the ouster of the former Prime Minister.
- When
- Since August 2024 and continuing into mid-2025.
- Where
- Bangladesh
- Why
- The ouster of the previous Prime Minister created a power vacuum, allowing for the rise of extremist groups and increased persecution of minorities.
Government/Islamist Militants
Minorities/Opposition
Religious Freedom vs. Persecution of Minorities
Government/Islamist Militants
Enforce stricter religious laws and potentially silence opposition.
Minorities/Opposition
Ensure the rights of religious minorities are protected.
Justification of Violence
Government/Islamist Militants
Justify violence based on religious pretext.
Minorities/Opposition
Condemn violence and hold perpetrators accountable.
The role of extremist groups
Government/Islamist Militants
Increase the influence of extremist religious groups.
Minorities/Opposition
Ensure that secular laws protect all citizens
- Interim Leader
- Muhammad Yunus
- Groups Gaining Influence
- Hefazat-e-Islam, Jamaat-e-Islami
- Targeted Groups
- Hindus and other minorities
- Reported Incidents
- Murders, attacks on places of worship, violence against women
- Protests
- Nearly 30,000 Hindus protested in Chattogram in November 2024
- Recent Factsheet
- USCIRF released a factsheet on Bangladesh
