Recent policies and orders issued by the Bangladesh government have drawn criticism for violating the rights of minorities, particularly Hindus, and breaching international human rights standards.
Bangladesh has seen a worrying rise in anti-Hindu actions, policies, and attacks on minority communities. Allegations have surfaced against the interim government’s Chief Adviser, Muhammad Yunus, accusing him of pursuing an agenda to render the country “Hindu-free.”
The Ministry of Home Affairs and Public Service Commission in Bangladesh recently issued directives restricting Hindus from being appointed to police positions, ranging from constables to senior ranks. Following these orders, over 1,500 Hindu applicants were disqualified from police recruitment.
Furthermore, more than 100 Hindu officers, holding roles such as Assistant Police Superintendent (ASP), Superintendent of Police (SP), and Deputy Inspector General (DIG), have reportedly been dismissed. These posts are allegedly being allocated to individuals linked to radical groups, including Jamaat-e-Islami.
Recruitment Halted
The recruitment process for 79,000 police personnel in Bangladesh has been canceled, with a new hiring initiative set to commence in January 2025. Under the new policy, Hindu applicants will no longer be eligible to apply for police roles.
Meanwhile, incidents of violence against Hindus have increased, with temples, religious sites, and places of worship being targeted across the country.
Since the departure of Sheikh Hasina’s government, multiple killings of Hindus have been reported, raising serious concerns about the safety and rights of minority communities.
Judicial Bias Against Hindus
Reports suggest deliberate efforts to block Hindus from passing civil service examinations, allegedly under the orders of interim Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus.
Although Yunus had previously pledged to address violence and discriminatory practices against Hindus, the situation has worsened significantly under his leadership, fueling fears among minority groups.
