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Bangladesh Hindus Fear Renewed Persecution After Elections

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  Published in Politics and Government on Wednesday, February 11th 2026 at 1:40 GMT by rediff.com
      Locales: BANGLADESH, INDIA

Dhaka, Bangladesh - February 11th, 2026 - Following the closely contested January 5th, 2026 general elections, a wave of anxiety is washing over Bangladesh's Hindu community. While the final governmental structure is still being solidified through coalition negotiations, the possibility of Jamaat-e-Islami wielding significant power - either directly in government or as a powerful influencing force - has triggered deep-seated fears of renewed persecution and violence. Interviews with community leaders and individuals across the country reveal a palpable sense of vulnerability rooted in historical experiences of discrimination and unrest.

The concerns stem from Jamaat-e-Islami's past record, particularly during periods when it held political influence. Memories of the 2013 Hefajat-e-Islam led violence, widely attributed to Jamaat instigation, are still fresh. That period saw widespread attacks on Hindu temples, homes, and businesses in several districts, including Satkhira, Cox's Bazar, and Chittagong. Reports at the time documented systematic looting, arson, and physical assaults, with allegations of insufficient protection from law enforcement and a lack of accountability for perpetrators.

"We've seen what happens when they're in power," explains Ratan Chowdhury, a community leader in Dhaka's Kalabagan neighborhood. "It's not just about physical violence; it's about a systematic effort to marginalize us - land grabbing disguised as development projects, pressure to convert, and the erosion of our cultural identity. It's a constant threat to our way of life."

Beyond the immediate threat of violence, Hindus fear a rollback of the secular principles enshrined in Bangladesh's constitution. While Bangladesh is officially a secular nation, interpretations of this secularism have varied widely, and there's been growing pressure from Islamist groups to declare Islam the state religion. A stronger Jamaat presence in government is widely perceived as accelerating this trend, potentially leading to discriminatory policies and the suppression of minority religious practices.

Shila Das, a resident of Satkhira district, recounts the devastating impact of the 2013 violence on her family. "My family lost everything. Our shop was looted, our home burned. We were forced to flee with only the clothes on our backs and live as refugees for months. It was a nightmare. The trauma still affects us today. We just want to live in peace, to practice our religion freely, and to raise our children without fear."

This fear isn't limited to individual experiences; it's shaping collective anxieties within the Hindu community. Many are expressing distrust of the existing political system, questioning the commitment of mainstream parties to protecting minority rights. They worry that political expediency might lead to compromises with Jamaat-e-Islami, giving the party a platform it doesn't deserve. There's also a significant concern regarding the slow pace of justice in cases involving violence against Hindus, fostering a sense of impunity for perpetrators.

The community is now actively seeking assurances from all political parties. They are urging the incoming government to prioritize inclusivity, strengthen the rule of law, and ensure equal protection for all citizens regardless of faith. Key demands include increased security for Hindu temples and properties, swift and impartial investigations into past attacks, and proactive measures to prevent future incidents. They are also advocating for legal reforms to address discriminatory practices and ensure fair representation in government and public institutions.

"We need a government that understands our fears and is willing to proactively protect us," says Prabir Mondal, a lawyer based in Khulna. "We don't want empty promises. We need concrete action. We need a government that truly believes in secularism, not just as a political slogan, but as a guiding principle for governance."

The situation highlights the complex challenges facing Bangladesh as it strives to balance political stability with the protection of minority rights. The upcoming weeks will be crucial in determining the future direction of the country and the security and well-being of its Hindu citizens. The community remains hopeful, but their hope is tempered by a deep-seated fear born of past experiences and the uncertain political landscape.