The Scottish Hindu Foundation, which represents Hindus in Scotland, has called for intervention and protection of the Hindu community in Bangladesh.
In a letter to David Lammy, the UK Secretary of State, the foundation expressed urgent concerns about the recent coup in Bangladesh and requested immediate and decisive action from the UK Government.
In light of the harrowing atrocities that are unfolding in #Bangladesh, we've written to @DavidLammy urging him to safeguard the principles of a civilized society and be decisive to #SaveBangladeshiHindus Lives pic.twitter.com/JgXwygAOX3
— Scottish Hindu Foundation (@ScotHinduFdn) August 11, 2024
“The current political upheaval poses a significant threat to the safety and well-being of the Hindu community in Bangladesh. This situation echoes past episodes of targeted violence during periods of instability in 1971, 1975, and 1990, where the Hindu community suffered severe persecution, including lynchings, desecration of temples, and widespread atrocities against women and children,” the foundation said in the letter.
The letter emphasized the need for a thorough reevaluation of the UK's policy towards individuals and organizations linked to religious violence.
The Scottish Hindu Foundation requested several urgent actions from the UK government in response to the situation in Bangladesh. They called for a formal notice to be issued to the Bangladeshi Army and Civil Apparatus, making it clear that any violence or persecution against the Hindu community would result in severe diplomatic and economic consequences.
They also urged the UK to seize assets held in the country by Bangladeshi elites and government officials found complicit in such acts. Additionally, they recommended suspending all visas and economic agreements with Bangladesh until there is independent, verifiable evidence that the Hindu community is safe and their rights are protected.
The Foundation further requested the authorization of a humanitarian corridor to facilitate safe passage for relief work and evacuation efforts, ensuring that aid reaches those in need and that individuals, especially members of the Hindu community, can evacuate safely if necessary. Finally, they called for the UK to grant asylum to Bangladeshi Hindus fleeing persecution, providing them with safety and security.
“These measures are critical in demonstrating the UK's commitment to human rights and its responsibility to protect vulnerable communities facing persecution. This situation presents a pivotal moment for the UK to correct past oversights and establish a firm stance against religious violence and persecution,” the letter added.
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