WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): Three prominent Indian American Congressmen—Raja Krishnamoorthi, Shri Thanedar, and Ro Khanna—have called for an immediate end to the escalating violence in Bangladesh, particularly the targeting of the Hindu minority. In a statement released earlier this week, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi expressed deep concern over the ongoing turmoil in Bangladesh. “As Bangladesh prepares to swear in its interim government, I urge all government officials, the new administration and police chief, and the people of Bangladesh to do all they can to end the violence that has emerged across the country, including the brutal targeting of the country’s Hindu minority, their homes, businesses, and their temples,” Krishnamoorthi said. He further emphasized the need for accountability, urging that “those responsible must be brought to justice to help the people of Bangladesh move forward as a nation.” Krishnamoorthi assured his constituents that he would continue to closely monitor the situation in coordination with the U.S. State Department.
Congressman Shri Thanedar also condemned the violence, describing it as a “horrific” threat to Bangladesh’s democracy. In his statement, Thanedar highlighted the recent civil unrest, which began with student-led protests and has since spiraled into widespread violence, leading to the deaths of hundreds and the persecution of minority populations, including Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians. “I am especially concerned about reports of attacks targeting the country’s Hindu minority. Accounts of temples destroyed, homes leveled, and individuals targeted are as disturbing as they are reprehensible,” he said. Thanedar called on all Bangladeshis, from leadership to the general populace, to work towards ending the violence and restoring peace.
Thanedar also noted the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on August 6th and her subsequent flight to India, leaving Bangladesh in disarray and under military control. He urged the new interim government to prioritize peace and stability, pledging to remain vigilant in coordination with the U.S. State Department.
Congressman Ro Khanna echoed similar sentiments, acknowledging the legitimacy of student-led protests against the former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government but condemning the subsequent violence. “Bangladeshi students had just human rights concerns against PM Hasina. It’s good she is gone. But the violence now targeting Hindus is wrong,” Khanna stated. He called on the newly appointed Prime Minister Yunus to uphold the rule of law and protect all citizens, regardless of their political or religious affiliations.