Lakhs of Hindus hit streets in Bangladesh to protest against attacks; what Muhammad Yunus said?

Lakhs of Hindus have hit the streets in Bangladesh to protest against ongoing attacks on their community following Sheikh Hasina's resignation as prime minister and her subsequent departure to India. Major rallies occurred on Saturday in the capital, Dhaka, as well as in Chittagong, the country's second-largest city.

Since the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led government on August 5, members of minority communities in Bangladesh have reportedly endured over 205 incidents of violence across 52 districts. Many Hindus have suffered injuries from attacks on their homes and businesses, and several Hindu temples have been vandalized. At least two leaders affiliated with Sheikh Hasina's Awami League party have been killed amid the unrest.

Many Bangladeshi Hindus attempt to flee to India

In light of the violence, many Bangladeshi Hindus have attempted to flee to neighboring India for safety. Notably, the popular Indian restaurant Santoor in Dhaka was vandalized and set ablaze on Saturday.

Thousands of Muslim protesters join in solidarity 

Protesters are demanding the establishment of special tribunals to expedite the prosecution of those who commit violence against minorities, the allocation of 10 percent of parliamentary seats for minority communities, and the enactment of a minority protection legislation. Their rally at Shahbagh in central Dhaka blocked traffic for over three hours. Thousands of Muslim protesters, including students, joined in solidarity with the minority community.

A significant gathering also took place in Chittagong at the historic Cheragi Pahar Square, with reports suggesting attendance exceeded seven lakh people. Similar demonstrations have been organized in the US and the UK.

Yunus condemns attacks on Hindus

Bangladesh's interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, condemned the attacks on minority communities, describing them as "heinous." The Nobel laureate urged students, who have been at the forefront of the protests, to protect all Hindu, Christian, and Buddhist families from harm. 

Yunus said, "Are they not the people of this country? You have been able to save the country; can't you save some families?... You must say - no one can harm them. They are my brothers; we fought together, and we will stay together," the 84-year-old asserted, underscoring the need for national unity."