London — The UK’s Shadow Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, Rt Hon Priti Patel MP, has written to the Foreign Secretary expressing deep concern over what she described as a sharp rise in religious persecution and violence against minorities in Bangladesh.
In a formal letter from the House of Commons, Patel highlighted reports indicating that at least six members of the Hindu community have been killed within an 18-day period, calling the situation “deeply concerning and worrying.” She described the reported level of violence as “unacceptable” and demanded clarity on the UK government’s response.
Referring to an Urgent Question raised in the House of Commons on 2 December 2024 regarding attacks on the Hindu community, Patel recalled assurances given by the then Minister for the Indo-Pacific, who had stated that the UK was monitoring the situation closely and engaging Bangladeshi authorities on the protection of religious minorities.
“Given the increase in violence,” Patel asked, “what steps have been taken over the last year to monitor and make representations?” She also sought details of recent diplomatic engagement, including whether the Foreign Secretary or other ministers have held direct discussions with Bangladeshi authorities or counterparts in recent weeks.
The letter further questions what concrete assurances the UK government has received from Dhaka regarding measures to protect Hindu communities from attacks, and whether the Bangladesh High Commissioner in London has been formally engaged on the issue.
Placing the issue within Bangladesh’s broader political context, Patel pressed the government to explain what work is underway with regional partners to promote stability and ensure respect for minority rights, using the UK’s diplomatic influence andconvening power.
Citing strong public interest and concern among the Bangladeshi diaspora in the UK—many of whom have family members in the country—Patel also asked whether the government plans to make a formal statement to the House of Commons outlining its actions and overall approach.
The intervention adds to growing international scrutiny of Bangladesh’s internal security situation and the safety of religious minorities, as pressure mounts on Western governments to respond more visibly to reports of targeted violence.
