In a significant diplomatic development, Israeli Ambassador to India Naor Gilon has publicly expressed distress over reports of escalating violence against Hindus and their temples in Bangladesh. His remarks come as the South Asian nation grapples with severe political unrest, culminating in Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation on August 5, 2024.
Ambassador Gilon’s statement was made on the social media platform X, where he stated, “I’m troubled by the reports of atrocities against minorities, including Hindus, and against their temples in Bangladesh.” The Israeli diplomat’s concerns reflect growing international attention to the situation in Bangladesh, where religious minorities, particularly Hindus, have faced increased attacks amidst the nation’s crisis.
I’m troubled by the reports of atrocities against minorities, including Hindus, and against their temples in Bangaladesh.
— Naor Gilon (@NaorGilon) August 6, 2024
Hindus make up approximately 8 percent of Bangladesh’s 170 million population and have historically supported the secular Awami League party led by Sheikh Hasina. However, recent unrest has led to heightened violence targeting these minority communities. The attacks on Hindu temples have further exacerbated tensions in an already volatile environment.
The political turmoil in Bangladesh began with student-led protests demanding the abolition of a government job quota system. These demonstrations rapidly evolved into broader Anti-Government protests, which have now resulted in Sheikh Hasina’s resignation. The resignation, announced on August 5, has sparked additional uncertainty in the nation.
In response to the deteriorating situation, Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar convened an all-party meeting in Parliament to brief Indian leaders on the unfolding crisis. During the briefing, Jaishankar emphasised the Indian government’s commitment to monitoring the welfare of minorities in Bangladesh closely. He also informed that Sheikh Hasina had sought, on short notice, approval to visit India. The nature of Hasina’s stay—whether in Delhi or elsewhere—remains uncertain.
Jaishankar further updated Parliament on the status of Indian nationals in Bangladesh, including approximately 19,000 Indians, of whom about 9,000 are students. He assured that the bulk of these students had returned to India by July. The Foreign Minister also highlighted the Indian government’s efforts to stay in contact with the Indian community in Dhaka.
The political crisis in Bangladesh has led to further significant developments: President Mohammed Shahabuddin announced the dissolution of the country’s parliament to pave the way for an interim government. Additionally, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who had been imprisoned, was released earlier in the day.
In a notable development within Dhaka, leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement have proposed the formation of an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus. This proposal aims to address the country’s ongoing challenges and restore stability amid the current chaos.
The situation in Bangladesh remains fluid and continues to attract international scrutiny as the country navigates its political and humanitarian crisis.
