Massive rally in Rangpur organized by Sammilit Sanatani Jagran Jot for minority rights and security
On Friday, Sammilit Sanatani Jagran Jot, a prominent platform for the Hindu community, organized a massive rally in Rangpur, demanding the protection and rights of minorities in Bangladesh. The rally, held at Mahiganj College ground, saw a large turnout of people from various districts of North Bangladesh, all advocating for the implementation of an 8-point demand list aimed at safeguarding the rights and well-being of minority groups, particularly the Hindu community.
The rally was chaired by Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, a leader from the ISKCON Pundrik Dham. Attendees, including leaders, journalists, lawyers, and teachers, expressed deep concerns over the persistent persecution faced by the Hindu community over the past 53 years. The speakers emphasized that justice has not been served for the violence, killings, and attacks on Hindu properties and places of worship, with many criticizing the government for its inaction in prosecuting those responsible.
The 8-point demands outlined by the Sammilit Sanatani Jagran Jot call for urgent reforms to address the grievances of the minority community:
1. Establishment of a special tribunal: For swift trials in cases of minority persecution, including compensation and rehabilitation for victims.
2. Enactment of a minority protection law: To ensure security and safeguard the rights of minority communities.
3. Creation of a ministry for minority affairs: To directly address the needs and issues of minority groups.
4. Upgrade of the Hindu welfare trust to a Hindu foundation: Along with similar upgrades for the Buddhist and Christian Welfare Trusts.
5. Laws to recover and protect debottar (temple) properties: Ensuring proper enforcement of the Vested Property Return Act.
6. Prayer rooms in educational institutions: To accommodate minority religious practices in schools, colleges, and hostels.
7. Modernization of Sanskrit and Pali education boards: To improve educational resources for these communities.
8. Five-Day public holiday for Durga puja: To officially recognize and celebrate Durga Puja, an important religious festival for Hindus.
The rally also highlighted an attack earlier on Friday by miscreants on members of the Hindu community who were en route to the Mahiganj College ground, further fueling concerns about the safety of minorities in the country.
Despite these challenges, the rally expressed cautious optimism about the government’s promises to provide compensation and reforms for affected community members. “If the 8-point demands are fulfilled, the Sanatan community will remain forever grateful,” said a representative during the event.
As the interim government led by Prof. Muhammad Yunus continues to navigate the political landscape, the rally served as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to address the security and rights of minorities in Bangladesh.
