Tensions flared in Chittagong over a social media post by a member of the Islamic radical group Jamaat-e-Islami, which contained objectionable content against ISKCON and the Hindu religion.
Dhaka: Tensions flared up in Bangladesh’s port city of Chittagong as security forces launched a massive crackdown on the minority Hindus, following clashes sparked by a social media post, the Indian Today website reported. The incident unfolded in the Hazari Gali area on November 5, when a member of the radical Islamic group Jamaat-e-Islami, Osman Ali, posted derogatory remarks against the Hindu religion and the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) on social media.
In response, Hindu residents gathered outside Ali’s shop to protest the offensive post, leading to clashes between the two communities. The situation further deteriorated when security forces, including the Bangladesh Army, were deployed to restore order.
Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen shared a video of the crackdown on X (formerly Twitter), writing, "Hazari Lane, Chittagong today. Hindus vs Military". The footage showed scenes of chaos, with security personnel clashing with civilians, chasing them and hitting them with batons. According to local media outlet Prothom Alo, blank rounds were fired into the air to disperse the crowd. Some officers were reportedly seen dismantling CCTV cameras.
A senior official in the Chittagong Metropolitan Police said officers faced significant resistance, with protestors allegedly throwing bricks and acid. Nine officers were injured, including one with acid burns. Meanwhile, Hindu community leaders accused security forces of unfairly targeting Hindu residents, alleging that authorities conducted indiscriminate attacks, despite the involvement of members from both communities.
This latest conflict comes amid broader concerns for the safety of minorities in Bangladesh and follows a broader pattern of violence against Hindus in the wake of Sheikh Hasina's ouster. Hindus make up about 8 per cent of the population and are the largest minority group in the country.
