The situation of religious minorities, particularly the Hindu community comprising about 8% of Bangladesh’s population, remains one of the country’s most challenging political issues. Despite signals of inclusiveness from the new authorities, reports of attacks against minorities raise serious international concerns.
Since August 2024, when Sheikh Hasina’s government was ousted, minority rights organisations have documented thousands of incidents of violence targeting Hindus, Buddhists and Christians – including arson attacks on homes and temples, physical assaults, and intimidation. The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has expressed concern about the escalation of religiously motivated violence, particularly during the electoral period.
The new Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has pledged to build an inclusive Bangladesh where all communities feel safe. Jamaat-e-Islami, the main opposition force, nominated a Hindu candidate for the first time in its history. Nevertheless, observers emphasise that effective protection of minorities requires not only declarations but systemic changes in law enforcement and prosecution of perpetrators of violence.
Source: Al Jazeera / USCIRF: https://www.aljazeera.com/features/2026/2/1/deeply-insecure-why-bangladeshi-minorities-are-scared-ahead-of-elections