Muhammad Yunus accused of orchestrating mass killings and attacks on minorities in Bangladesh by Sheikh Hasina

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has accused the interim government’s Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus of masterminding mass killings and orchestrating violence against minorities in the country, speaking virtually to an Awami League event in New York. According to her, Yunus collaborated with student leaders to target Hindu temples, including ISKCON sites, and other religious places of minority communities.

Violence Against Minorities on the Rise

Underlining the rising attacks on Hindus, Christians, Buddhists, and other minorities in Bangladesh, Hasina condemned the recent violence under the interim government’s rule. “Teachers and police are being attacked, and Hindus, Christians, and Buddhists are being victimized. Many temples, churches, and mosques have been targeted. Why are minorities under siege?” she questioned during her address.

Formation of interim government led by Muhammad Yunus since August has reportedly seen the increased bloodshed against minority groups. Hasina also refers to offensive remarks from leaders of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, such as Tarique Rahman, who hinted at possibilities that unrest might dislodge the interim government.

Targeting Religious Sites and Leaders

Recent incidents include burning a temple in Chittagong and attacks on mosques, churches, and properties of the Ahmadiyya community. Hasina expressed anger at the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, a Hindu priest associated with ISKCON and the Bangladesh Sammilit Sanatan Jagran Jote. She demanded immediate release, branding the charges against him as baseless.

Notable personalities, such as Hasnat Abdullah and Sarjis Alam, who are affiliated with the ‘Anti-Discrimination Student Movement,’ have also been targeted for their involvement in inciting violence and demanding a ban on ISKCON Bangladesh.

Awami League Calls for Accountability

The speech shed light on the massive persecution across 52 districts since Hasina’s resignation on August 5. She was critical about religious freedom and the protection of the minority community. “The safety and security of life, property, and places of worship must be ensured for all citizens,” she said.

Accusing Yunus and his allies of a deliberate attempt to create chaos, Hasina reiterated her commitment to exposure of these activities. “After the killing of so many Awami League leaders and workers, law enforcement personnel, and students, harassment through assaults and arrests continues. I strongly condemn these anarchist activities,” she said.

Rising tensions and incidents of violence have brought forth significant concerns regarding the democracy of the interim government, religious freedom, and minority rights in Bangladesh.

Keep looking for more updates from Bangladesh regarding the political and social scenarios.