Shahi Imam Syed Ahmed Bukhari of Delhi’s Jama Masjid has strongly condemned the alleged mistreatment of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh and urged the interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus to take immediate steps to protect minority rights.
In a statement issued on December 3, 2024, Bukhari highlighted the political turmoil in Bangladesh that led to the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina earlier this year. He noted that Hasina was exiled to India, where she was granted asylum at her personal request. Bukhari emphasized the historic ties between India and Bangladesh, particularly with Sheikh Hasina and her party, the Awami League.
“Since the establishment of Bangladesh, India has maintained close relations with Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Sheikh Hasina, and the Awami League. Bangladesh has always been a close ally in regional, diplomatic, and international affairs,” he said.
Bukhari acknowledged the rise of opposing political forces now in power in Bangladesh, which have historically held an adversarial stance towards Indo-Bangladesh relations. However, he criticized the violence and alleged targeting of Hindu minorities following Hasina’s removal, calling it “condemnable and unjustifiable.”
“The ongoing assaults and unilateral actions against the Hindu minority are reprehensible. The government of Bangladesh must recognize the role India has played in its establishment and development, and ensure the safety and rights of all minorities,” Bukhari stated.
He also called on Muhammad Yunus to act swiftly, warning that continued persecution could tarnish Yunus’s international reputation. “As a Nobel laureate and the current head of Bangladesh, Yunus must ensure justice and fairness. Islam and Islamic jurisprudence leave no room for prejudice or injustice against minorities,” Bukhari added.
Highlighting the United Nations’ commitment to protecting minority rights, Bukhari reminded the Bangladeshi government of its international obligations. “Every nation has the right to question oppression, coercion, and prejudice against minorities under international law,” he said.
The Shahi Imam’s remarks come amid rising concerns over minority safety in Bangladesh, as violence and unrest continue to grip the nation in the aftermath of the regime change.
