As the tensions rise in Bangladesh following the death of the youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi, who was killed in an assassination attempt, violent protesters hurled stones at the Assistant High Commission of India and nearby residences of officials in the port city of Chittagong. Smoke billowed in the region as law enforcement confirmed arson incidents in the area. This comes after protests broke out in several parts of the country after Hadi died in a Singapore hospital on Thursday (Dec 19).&nbsp;Thousands of people took to the streets after the youth leader’s death, demanding his killers’ arrest. Angry protestors set fire to several buildings in the capital, including offices of two leading newspapers, with staff trapped inside.&nbsp;Hadi, the leader of the country’s 2024 pro-democracy uprising, was a polarising figure known for his strong anti-India stance. He was shot by masked assailants while leaving a mosque in Dhaka. Hadi was airlifted to a hospital in Singapore for treatment, but succumbed to his injuries on Thursday (Dec 18).&nbsp;At least three cases of arson were reported in Dhaka early Friday (Dec 19), according to a spokesperson for the Fire Brigade and Civil Defence force. Buildings of newspapers, Daily Star and Prothom Alo, were targeted in the attacks. The protestors have accused the two largest papers of aligning with India, where the former prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, has been staying after her ouster.&nbsp;Protesters also blocked a major highway that connects Dhaka with other parts of the country and vandalised the home of a former minister in Chittagong in southeastern Bangladesh. The residence of Bangladesh’s first president, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the father of Sheikh Hasina, was also vandalised and set on fire by violent protesters.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Bangladesh police have launched a manhunt for Hadi’s shooter. The authorities have released photographs of two key suspects in the killing and have offered a reward of 5 million taka (about $42,000) for any information leading to their arrest.

Thousands of people took to the streets after the youth leader’s death, demanding his killers’ arrest. Angry protestors set fire to several buildings in the capital, including offices of two leading newspapers, with staff trapped inside.

As the tensions rise in Bangladesh following the death of the youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi, who was killed in an assassination attempt, violent protesters hurled stones at the Assistant High Commission of India and nearby residences of officials in the port city of Chittagong. Smoke billowed in the region as law enforcement confirmed arson incidents in the area. This comes after protests broke out in several parts of the country after Hadi died in a Singapore hospital on Thursday (Dec 19). Thousands of people took to the streets after the youth leader’s death, demanding his killers’ arrest. Angry protestors set fire to several buildings in the capital, including offices of two leading newspapers, with staff trapped inside. Hadi, the leader of the country’s 2024 pro-democracy uprising, was a polarising figure known for his strong anti-India stance. He was shot by masked assailants while leaving a mosque in Dhaka. Hadi was airlifted to a hospital in Singapore for treatment, but succumbed to his injuries on Thursday (Dec 18). At least three cases of arson were reported in Dhaka early Friday (Dec 19), according to a spokesperson for the Fire Brigade and Civil Defence force. Buildings of newspapers, Daily Star and Prothom Alo, were targeted in the attacks. The protestors have accused the two largest papers of aligning with India, where the former prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, has been staying after her ouster. Protesters also blocked a major highway that connects Dhaka with other parts of the country and vandalised the home of a former minister in Chittagong in southeastern Bangladesh. The residence of Bangladesh’s first president, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the father of Sheikh Hasina, was also vandalised and set on fire by violent protesters. Meanwhile, Bangladesh police have launched a manhunt for Hadi’s shooter. The authorities have released photographs of two key suspects in the killing and have offered a reward of 5 million taka (about $42,000) for any information leading to their arrest.

Thousands of people took to the streets after the youth leader’s death, demanding his killers’ arrest. Angry protestors set fire to several buildings in the capital, including offices of two leading newspapers, with staff trapped inside.

Bangladesh protest: Vandals attack Indian Mission in Chittagong after Sharif Osman Hadi’s Death

Bangladesh's interim government led by Muhammad Yunus has initiated "Operation Devil Hunt" to address the rising incidents of mob attacks and vandalism across Bangladesh. As part of this specialized operation, security forces have arrested approximately 1,308 individuals nationwide. Most of those arrested are believed to be members of the Awami League and its affiliated organizations.

Bangladesh launches state sponsored Devil Hunt against Sheikh Hasina loyalists

Bangladesh’s security forces launched “Operation Devil Hunt,” arresting 1,308 people overnight amid nationwide unrest. The interim government, led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, has vowed to continue the crackdown until stability is restored.

Bangladesh Protest: 1,308 nabbed as operation devil hunt set to continue

Iskcon, or International Society for Krishna Consciousness, is in sharp focus in Bangladesh after the arrest of one of its monks and a petition in the Dhaka High Court on banning it.

The court on Thursday (Nov. 28) rejected the plea to ban, filed by a&nbsp;lawyer who claimed that Iskcon is banned in several countries.

The ban was sought after the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, an Iskcon priest who reportedly led rallies against attacks on Hindus in the country since the ouster of Sheikh Hasina as prime minister. Hasina fled to India in August after being ousted in a student-led popular uprising against her regime.

WATCH: Bangladesh High Court Rejects ISKCON Ban Plea Amid Priest’s Arrest | World DNA | WION

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-high-court-rejects-isckon-ban-plea-amid-priests-arrest-world-dna-wion-779893/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Just hours into the Dhaka court's verdict, Iskcon Bangladesh dissociated itself from Chinmoy Krishna Das, saying he was recently expelled from the organisation.

Charu Chandra Das, the Iskcon Bangladesh general secretary, told reporters in Dhaka that it will not take any responsibility for the words or actions of Chinmoy Krishna Das.

<h2>What is Iskcon, the Hare Krishna movement?</h2>

Iskcon is a group devoted to the Hindu god Lord Krishna.

It was founded by AC Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.

According to Iskcon lore, Swami Prabhupada travelled in a cargo ship to New York at the ripe old age of 69 without a penny in his pocket, and spread the word on Krishna consciousness. In 1966, he founded Iskcon in the American megapolis, along with his students.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-police-detain-iskcon-leader-krishna-das-at-dhaka-airport-report-779159">Also read: Bangladesh police detain ISKCON leader Krishna Das at Dhaka airport: Report</a> 
 
Often called the 'Hare Krishna' movement due to its main chants, Iskcon grew into a massive international organisation engaged in charitable and religious-spiritual activities.

In the heydays of 1970s counterculture in the US, several so-called hippies found their spiritual solace in organisations like Iskcon.

It expanded activities into several cities across the world and built temples in them.

Iskcon has a vast following in the western world, particularly in the US.

Iskcon is no stranger to controversy. It has been described in media accounts as a spiritual group and a cult, depending on the lens used to observe it.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/after-chinmoy-dass-arrest-high-court-to-hear-petition-seeking-ban-on-iskcon-in-bangladesh-779620">Also read: Chinmoy Das arrest: Petition filed in Bangladesh High Court seeking ban on ISKCON</a>

To quote an article in Iskconnews.org, Iskcon "is banned in Singapore, cherished in South Africa, tolerated in the USA, allowed in Indonesia, secretive in China, loved in India, underground in the Middle East, registered in Pakistan, valued in Brazil, present in Bangladesh, esteemed in Guyana, new in Korea, accepted in Canada, recognised in Malaysia, valued in Australia, established in Russia, permitted in Japan, honoured in Nigeria, treasured in Italy, heard in Germany, and appreciated in the UK."

Iskcon followers, also called 'Hare Krishnas', are conspicuous with their tonsured heads&nbsp;and simple Indian-style dressing, often in white or saffron colours, chanting, beads and garlands, and sandalwood paste 'tilaks'.

They chant, sing, play instruments and dance to Krishna devotional songs, engage in charitable activities, besides selling Krishna-linked books and other merchandise like the Hindu text Bhagawat Gita.

In 2021, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi noted the charitable work of Iskcon, including the help it did during the Covid pandemic that hit in 2020.

He was speaking after releasing a special commemorative coin of ₹125 on the occasion of the 125th birth anniversary of Swami Prabhupada

"When there was an earthquake in Kutch in 2001...Iskon had stepped forward to serve the people. Whenever the country experienced any calamity, whether it is the tragedy of Uttarakhand or the devastation of cyclones in Odisha and Bengal, Iskcon has worked as a support for the society," Modi said at the occasion.

As Modi recalled, Iskcon served food to vulnerable populations during Covid at their homes under its Food for Life initiative.

<h2>Why is Iskcon facing trouble in Bangladesh?</h2>

It is being accused of disruptive activities in Bangaldesh after Iskcon monk Chinmoy Krishna Das was arrested.

Das had led rallies for Hindu rights in Chattogram and Rangpur to protest the recent attacks against Hindus in Bangladesh.

The Dhaka High Court had asked the country's attorney general to report the government’s actions concerning Iskcon.

On Thursday, the attorney general’s office submitted before the court that 33 people were arrested, three cases registered regarding the murder of lawyer Saiful Islam Alif and Iskcon's activities.

Saiful Islam was allegedly killed on Tuesday in Chittagong city during protests over the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das.

Bangladesh, where Hindus are a minority, has seen a charged political atmosphere since the ouster of Sheikh Hasina.

The arrest of Sharma and others is the latest in this series of events. In the past few days, there have been protests in several parts of Bangladesh over the arrest of Krishna Das, and the targeting of Iskcon and other Hindu temples.

In his earlier submission to the court, Bangladesh Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman called Iskcon a 'religious fundamentalist organisation' that the government is already scrutinising.

Iskcon vice president Radha Raman Das expressed shock at being called a radical organisation by the Bangladesh attorney general.

"Even in Bangladesh, during floods, we served so many people. We were questioned why we did so, yet we did it. Eight billion people have been fed by Iskcon worldwide. And we are being called a radical terrorist organisation?," he was quoted as saying by India Today website.

While urging world leaders to speak on the issue, Raman Das said the situation is 'out of hand' in Bangladesh and hoped things would improve when Donald Trump takes charge as US president.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iskcon, or International Society for Krishna Consciousness, is in sharp focus in Bangladesh after the arrest of one of its monks and a petition in the Dhaka High Court on banning it.

Iskcon, or International Society for Krishna Consciousness, is in sharp focus in Bangladesh after the arrest of one of its monks and a petition in the Dhaka High Court on banning it. The court on Thursday (Nov. 28) rejected the plea to ban, filed by a lawyer who claimed that Iskcon is banned in several countries. The ban was sought after the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, an Iskcon priest who reportedly led rallies against attacks on Hindus in the country since the ouster of Sheikh Hasina as prime minister. Hasina fled to India in August after being ousted in a student-led popular uprising against her regime. WATCH: Bangladesh High Court Rejects ISKCON Ban Plea Amid Priest’s Arrest | World DNA | WION × Just hours into the Dhaka court's verdict, Iskcon Bangladesh dissociated itself from Chinmoy Krishna Das, saying he was recently expelled from the organisation. Charu Chandra Das, the Iskcon Bangladesh general secretary, told reporters in Dhaka that it will not take any responsibility for the words or actions of Chinmoy Krishna Das. What is Iskcon, the Hare Krishna movement? Iskcon is a group devoted to the Hindu god Lord Krishna. It was founded by AC Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. According to Iskcon lore, Swami Prabhupada travelled in a cargo ship to New York at the ripe old age of 69 without a penny in his pocket, and spread the word on Krishna consciousness. In 1966, he founded Iskcon in the American megapolis, along with his students. Also read: Bangladesh police detain ISKCON leader Krishna Das at Dhaka airport: Report Often called the 'Hare Krishna' movement due to its main chants, Iskcon grew into a massive international organisation engaged in charitable and religious-spiritual activities. In the heydays of 1970s counterculture in the US, several so-called hippies found their spiritual solace in organisations like Iskcon. It expanded activities into several cities across the world and built temples in them. Iskcon has a vast following in the western world, particularly in the US. Iskcon is no stranger to controversy. It has been described in media accounts as a spiritual group and a cult, depending on the lens used to observe it. Also read: Chinmoy Das arrest: Petition filed in Bangladesh High Court seeking ban on ISKCON To quote an article in Iskconnews.org, Iskcon "is banned in Singapore, cherished in South Africa, tolerated in the USA, allowed in Indonesia, secretive in China, loved in India, underground in the Middle East, registered in Pakistan, valued in Brazil, present in Bangladesh, esteemed in Guyana, new in Korea, accepted in Canada, recognised in Malaysia, valued in Australia, established in Russia, permitted in Japan, honoured in Nigeria, treasured in Italy, heard in Germany, and appreciated in the UK." Iskcon followers, also called 'Hare Krishnas', are conspicuous with their tonsured heads and simple Indian-style dressing, often in white or saffron colours, chanting, beads and garlands, and sandalwood paste 'tilaks'. They chant, sing, play instruments and dance to Krishna devotional songs, engage in charitable activities, besides selling Krishna-linked books and other merchandise like the Hindu text Bhagawat Gita. In 2021, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi noted the charitable work of Iskcon, including the help it did during the Covid pandemic that hit in 2020. He was speaking after releasing a special commemorative coin of ₹125 on the occasion of the 125th birth anniversary of Swami Prabhupada "When there was an earthquake in Kutch in 2001...Iskon had stepped forward to serve the people. Whenever the country experienced any calamity, whether it is the tragedy of Uttarakhand or the devastation of cyclones in Odisha and Bengal, Iskcon has worked as a support for the society," Modi said at the occasion. As Modi recalled, Iskcon served food to vulnerable populations during Covid at their homes under its Food for Life initiative. Why is Iskcon facing trouble in Bangladesh? It is being accused of disruptive activities in Bangaldesh after Iskcon monk Chinmoy Krishna Das was arrested. Das had led rallies for Hindu rights in Chattogram and Rangpur to protest the recent attacks against Hindus in Bangladesh. The Dhaka High Court had asked the country's attorney general to report the government’s actions concerning Iskcon. On Thursday, the attorney general’s office submitted before the court that 33 people were arrested, three cases registered regarding the murder of lawyer Saiful Islam Alif and Iskcon's activities. Saiful Islam was allegedly killed on Tuesday in Chittagong city during protests over the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das. Bangladesh, where Hindus are a minority, has seen a charged political atmosphere since the ouster of Sheikh Hasina. The arrest of Sharma and others is the latest in this series of events. In the past few days, there have been protests in several parts of Bangladesh over the arrest of Krishna Das, and the targeting of Iskcon and other Hindu temples. In his earlier submission to the court, Bangladesh Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman called Iskcon a 'religious fundamentalist organisation' that the government is already scrutinising. Iskcon vice president Radha Raman Das expressed shock at being called a radical organisation by the Bangladesh attorney general. "Even in Bangladesh, during floods, we served so many people. We were questioned why we did so, yet we did it. Eight billion people have been fed by Iskcon worldwide. And we are being called a radical terrorist organisation?," he was quoted as saying by India Today website. While urging world leaders to speak on the issue, Raman Das said the situation is 'out of hand' in Bangladesh and hoped things would improve when Donald Trump takes charge as US president. (With inputs from agencies)

What is Iskcon, the Krishna consciousness movement in the eye of storm in Bangladesh amid anti-Hindu violence?

Bangladesh's ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's coalition, Jatiya Party, central office in Dhaka, has been set on fire after clashes on Thursday night. The office was partly damaged, the witnesses said.

Bangladesh's ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's coalition, Jatiya Party, central office in Dhaka, has been set on fire after clashes on Thursday night. The office was partly damaged, the witnesses said. The Jatiya Party, founded by late President Hussain Muhammad Ershad, was a part of the Bangladesh Awami League-led Grand Alliance and participated previous three general elections despite the major party BNP boycotted the elections. Protesters against Sheikh Hasina were angered when the Jatiya Party announced that it would hold a rally in Dhaka on Saturday. Clashes erupted when protesters carrying the Chhatra Sramik Janata banner marched with a torch procession in front of the Jatiya Party's central office in the Kakrail area, the heart of the capital Dhaka. Also read: Blast in Pak's Balochistan: Death toll rises to seven, CM condemns explosion The fire service went to the spot and extinguished the fire. When a large number of protestors went in front of the Jatiya Party left the office. Protesters vandalized Jatiya Party offices, pulled down signboards and smeared ink on party founder Ershad's picture on the wall, the witnesses said. Police and Army were deployed in front of the Jatiya Party office. "We were passing in front of the Jatiya Party office with a torch procession. At that time, terrorists of the Jatiya Party threw bricks at our procession from the roof of the Jatiya Party office", said Shakiluzzaman, a leader of Gono Audhikar Parishad, a political party that actively participated in the movement against Sheikh Hasina. "Jatiya Party terrorists themselves set fire to their office and escaped. Jatya Party acted as a proxy of the fascist Awami League in the 2014, 2018 and 2024 elections", Shakiluzzaman said. "We the students, workers and citizens have declared that we will not allow Jatiya Party to hold any rally", he further said. No comment was immediately found from the Jatiya Party but they are likely to express their reaction officially later on Friday. Two months ago, s student-led movement ousted Bangladesh's Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, after weeks of protests and clashes that killed over 600. Hasina, 76, fled to India on August 5 and an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus was formed. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Bangladesh: Protesters torch Jatiya Party office in Dhaka amid anti-Hasina protests

Bangladesh has become synonymous with turmoil, as its Hindu community faces challenging times. On October 31, while Hindus worldwide celebrated Diwali, Bangladesh protesters lit torches and held a march. Their sole demand? Better treatment of minorities in the country. The protest was triggered by a sedition charge filed against 19 individuals for allegedly disrespecting Bangladesh's national flag.

Hindus Under Attack in Bangladesh: Dhaka Holds Massive Rally for Minority Rights | GRAVITAS

Former U.S. President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has spoken out strongly against the ongoing attacks on minorities in Bangladesh, specifically targeting the recent violence against Hindus. Trump labelled Bangladesh as a country in a total state of ‘chaos.’

Trump Condemns Anti-Hindu Violence in Bangladesh

S&P global ratings has warned that political turmoil in Bangladesh is likely to delay planned financial reforms and exacerbate weaknesses in the banking sector.

Bangladesh: S&P warns of slowdown in financial reforms

At least 12 inmates were killed and hundreds of others escaped prison in twin jailbreaks in Bangladesh in the chaotic days after the ouster of Sheikh Hasina, the news agency AFP reported on Saturday (Aug 10) citing officials.

At least 12 inmates were killed and hundreds of others escaped prison in twin jailbreaks in Bangladesh in the chaotic days after the ouster of Sheikh Hasina, the news agency AFP reported on Saturday (Aug 10) citing officials. According to the news agency, this week's twin jailbreaks, both north of the capital Dhaka, were the latest in a series of breakouts during weeks of nationwide unrest leading up to Hasina's toppling. On Monday, when Hasina stepped down as prime minister and fled Bangladesh, more than 500 inmates fled a jail in the northern district of Sherpur. 'They attacked us with iron rods, sharp weapons' Jamalpur Prison warden Abu Fatah told the news agency that six convicts were killed after prison guards were assaulted by escapees. "They attacked us with iron rods and sharp weapons. They torched my office. Then tried to break out and take all 600 prisoners with them," Fatah said. Also read | Bangladesh Hindus protest amid growing violence He added that jail authorities were forced to open fire. "At least six inmates were killed including one who was stabbed to death," the warden further said and pointed out that guards managed to quell the attack before anyone escaped. The six prisoners who were killed belonged to a high-security prison in Kashimpur, the prison's warden Lutfor Rahman told AFP. Rahman said that on Tuesday, the inmates used iron tools and rebar rods to attack guards and broke through the jail's main gate, forcing army soldiers and jail guards to open fire. "At least 203 prisoners also managed to escape," he said. The Kashimpur High-Security Prison hosts some of Bangladesh's most notorious convicts, including Islamist extremists and murderers. Rahman said none of the high-profile inmates had managed to break out of their cells. Numerous attempted and successful jailbreaks have taken place across Bangladesh since protests against quotas in government jobs began last month. Police unions declare strike AFP reported that over 450 people died during weeks of clashes between police and protesters leading up to Hasina's ouster, including dozens of police officers. Police unions declared a strike on Tuesday and said officers would not resume duty until their safety was assured. More than half of the country's police stations have since reopened (With inputs from agencies)

At least 12 inmates killed in twin jailbreaks in Bangladesh days after Hasina's ouster

The Indian visa application centres in Bangladesh will be closed for an indefinite period due to unrest in the neighbouring country, which forced Sheikh Hasina to resign as Prime Minister and flee the country.

The online portal for applying for Indian visas now displays a message stating, "All IVACs will remain closed until further notice due to the unstable situation. The next application date will be communicated via SMS, and applicants are requested to pick up their passports on the next working day."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-crisis-non-essential-staff-from-indian-high-commission-leaves-dhaka-747927">Bangladesh crisis: Non essential staff from Indian High Commission leaves Dhaka</a>

Notably, on Wednesday, New Delhi evacuated non-essential staff and their families from its High Commission and consulates in Bangladesh amid the volatile situation in the country.

The Indian High Commission in Dhaka remains functional and a team of senior Indian diplomats remain in the country. India has a High Commission in the capital city&nbsp;Dhaka and 4 assistant high commissions- Chittagong, Rajshahi, Sylhet, and Khulna.

There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there, of which about 9,000 are students. The bulk of the students have already returned to India in the month of July after an advisory by the Indian govt.&nbsp;

The situation in Bangladesh has seen significant political upheaval following the resignation and departure of the former PM Hasina.

Hasina, who had been in power for over&nbsp;two decades, left the country on August 5 amid&nbsp;widespread protests.

The protests initially started over the issue of civil service job quotas but escalated into demands for Hasina to step down.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-rafale-jets-and-nsa-doval-ensured-hasinas-security-after-she-fled-bangladesh-747584" target="_blank">How Rafale jets and NSA Doval ensured Hasina’s security after she fled Bangladesh</a>

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Tuesday,&nbsp;"We are monitoring the situation with regard to the status of minorities."&nbsp;

"There are reports of initiatives by various groups and organisations to ensure their protection and well-being. We welcome that, but will naturally remain deeply concerned till law and order is visibly restored," he said in parliament on Tuesday.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian visa application centres in Bangladesh will be closed for an indefinite period due to unrest in the neighbouring country, which forced Sheikh Hasina to resign as Prime Minister and flee the country.

The Indian visa application centres in Bangladesh will be closed for an indefinite period due to unrest in the neighbouring country, which forced Sheikh Hasina to resign as Prime Minister and flee the country. The online portal for applying for Indian visas now displays a message stating, "All IVACs will remain closed until further notice due to the unstable situation. The next application date will be communicated via SMS, and applicants are requested to pick up their passports on the next working day." Also read: Bangladesh crisis: Non essential staff from Indian High Commission leaves Dhaka Notably, on Wednesday, New Delhi evacuated non-essential staff and their families from its High Commission and consulates in Bangladesh amid the volatile situation in the country. The Indian High Commission in Dhaka remains functional and a team of senior Indian diplomats remain in the country. India has a High Commission in the capital city Dhaka and 4 assistant high commissions- Chittagong, Rajshahi, Sylhet, and Khulna. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there, of which about 9,000 are students. The bulk of the students have already returned to India in the month of July after an advisory by the Indian govt. The situation in Bangladesh has seen significant political upheaval following the resignation and departure of the former PM Hasina. Hasina, who had been in power for over two decades, left the country on August 5 amid widespread protests. The protests initially started over the issue of civil service job quotas but escalated into demands for Hasina to step down. Also read: How Rafale jets and NSA Doval ensured Hasina’s security after she fled Bangladesh India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Tuesday, "We are monitoring the situation with regard to the status of minorities." "There are reports of initiatives by various groups and organisations to ensure their protection and well-being. We welcome that, but will naturally remain deeply concerned till law and order is visibly restored," he said in parliament on Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian visa centres in Bangladesh closed until further notice

Violence and unrest continues&nbsp;across Bangladesh even&nbsp;after the ouster of Sheikh Hasina, which was the demand of protestors.&nbsp;

Sheikh Hasina had to flee her country on Monday (Aug 5), when a violent mob stormed her official residence in Dhaka. Since then, the minorities of Bangladesh including Hindus and Christians have been attacked continuously. In the wake of such anti-minorities violence, the house of popular Bangladeshi folk singer Rahul Ananada was also charred to ashes, as reported by Bangladesh media.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-crisis-non-essential-staff-from-indian-high-commission-leaves-dhaka-747927">Bangladesh crisis: Non essential staff from Indian High Commission leave Dhaka</a>

Ananda’s residence, which was once a haven for culture, was vandalised, looted and burnt on Monday. The absolute mayhem made the cultural hub unrecognisable. The house was situated in Dhaka’s Dhanmondi 32.&nbsp;
<img alt="Rahul Ananda's house (after vandalism)" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1ebb70ac-8fbc-4b91-84a5-297b942ee760" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-08-07T145103.234.png" /><img alt="Rahul Ananda's house (after vandalism)" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a05eea44-a6a9-443d-a1ef-5926632592db" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-08-07T145245.306.png" /><img alt="Rahul Ananda's house (before vandalism)" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0732999f-8974-4819-b94a-3db9742df344" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/rahul_ananda_interview_arshadul_hoque_09112023_13.jpg" />
Image Courtesy: X

The 140-year-old house of ‘Joler Gaan’ Rahul Ananda, was once used to be flocked by the music fraternity for various events throughout the year. In September 2023, the cultural place was visited by French President Emmanuel Macron on his visit to Bangladesh.

One of the founding members of 'Joler Gaan', Saiful Ismal Jarnal, told The Daily Star that Rahul Ananda and his family were shaken and took refuge in a secret place.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
সব শেষ!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bangaldesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bangaldesh</a> folk singer and cultural activist Rahul Anando’s residence located at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dhaka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dhaka</a>’s Dhanmondi vandalised, looted and set on fire by a raging mob on Tuesday. Anando, a renowned artist and member of popular folk band Joler Gaan is on the run with his wife and… <a href="https://t.co/F6LlQLeSWG">pic.twitter.com/F6LlQLeSWG</a>
— Indrajit Kundu | ইন্দ্রজিৎ (@iindrojit) <a href="https://twitter.com/iindrojit/status/1821036018562470346?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Rahul Da and his family are shaken and take shelter to a secret place known to only a few. We could not contact him yet. It was not even his house, it was a rental he was living in for decades," said Jarnal.

"I came to know the incident happened around 4 pm. From what I have heard, a group of goons attacked the residence and Rahul Da, Shukla Di (Rahul's wife), Tota (his son) and other family members somehow got out," said Jarnal.

The mob first ravaged the house and took whatever they could, from furniture, and mirrors to valuables. After that, they set the house on fire along with Ananda's musical instruments, a priced cultural possession, as per The Daily Star.
<img alt="Rahul Ananda's house (before vandalism)" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="76630c19-4f4f-499e-ab76-f4fd2fd79a2f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-08-07T145823.232.png" /><img alt="Rahul Ananda's house (after vandalism)" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="66c3e3af-2566-4085-b81a-0dba69450dd5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-08-07T145917.213.png" />
"Rahul Da owned a collection of over 3000 musical instruments which he designed and made over the years. I can say that he might have suffered a loss of Tk 10 lakh over the household things, but how could you put a price on the instruments which he so lovingly built?" asked Jarnal, a musician himself.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-24-burnt-alive-as-mob-sets-fire-to-hotel-owned-by-awami-league-politician-747738">Bangladesh: 24 burnt alive as mob sets afire hotel owned by Awami League politician</a>

Ananda’s residence was adjacent to the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s home at Dhanmondi 32.&nbsp;

In response to the incident, Joler Gaan posted a song from their official page with a caption that reads, "The house on Dhanmondi 32, once a sanctuary for Rahul Ananda and the Joler Gaan ensemble, was not just a residence but a creative hub where countless songs and instruments were crafted."

(With inputs from agencies)

Violence and unrest continues across Bangladesh even after the ouster of Sheikh Hasina, which was the demand of protestors. Sheikh Hasina had to flee her country on Monday (Aug 5), when a violent mob stormed her official residence in Dhaka.

Violence and unrest continues across Bangladesh even after the ouster of Sheikh Hasina, which was the demand of protestors. Sheikh Hasina had to flee her country on Monday (Aug 5), when a violent mob stormed her official residence in Dhaka. Since then, the minorities of Bangladesh including Hindus and Christians have been attacked continuously. In the wake of such anti-minorities violence, the house of popular Bangladeshi folk singer Rahul Ananada was also charred to ashes, as reported by Bangladesh media. Also Read | Bangladesh crisis: Non essential staff from Indian High Commission leave Dhaka Ananda’s residence, which was once a haven for culture, was vandalised, looted and burnt on Monday. The absolute mayhem made the cultural hub unrecognisable. The house was situated in Dhaka’s Dhanmondi 32. Image Courtesy: X The 140-year-old house of ‘Joler Gaan’ Rahul Ananda, was once used to be flocked by the music fraternity for various events throughout the year. In September 2023, the cultural place was visited by French President Emmanuel Macron on his visit to Bangladesh. One of the founding members of 'Joler Gaan', Saiful Ismal Jarnal, told The Daily Star that Rahul Ananda and his family were shaken and took refuge in a secret place. সব শেষ!#Bangaldesh folk singer and cultural activist Rahul Anando’s residence located at #Dhaka’s Dhanmondi vandalised, looted and set on fire by a raging mob on Tuesday. Anando, a renowned artist and member of popular folk band Joler Gaan is on the run with his wife and… pic.twitter.com/F6LlQLeSWG — Indrajit Kundu | ইন্দ্রজিৎ (@iindrojit) August 7, 2024 × "Rahul Da and his family are shaken and take shelter to a secret place known to only a few. We could not contact him yet. It was not even his house, it was a rental he was living in for decades," said Jarnal. "I came to know the incident happened around 4 pm. From what I have heard, a group of goons attacked the residence and Rahul Da, Shukla Di (Rahul's wife), Tota (his son) and other family members somehow got out," said Jarnal. The mob first ravaged the house and took whatever they could, from furniture, and mirrors to valuables. After that, they set the house on fire along with Ananda's musical instruments, a priced cultural possession, as per The Daily Star. "Rahul Da owned a collection of over 3000 musical instruments which he designed and made over the years. I can say that he might have suffered a loss of Tk 10 lakh over the household things, but how could you put a price on the instruments which he so lovingly built?" asked Jarnal, a musician himself. Also Read | Bangladesh: 24 burnt alive as mob sets afire hotel owned by Awami League politician Ananda’s residence was adjacent to the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s home at Dhanmondi 32. In response to the incident, Joler Gaan posted a song from their official page with a caption that reads, "The house on Dhanmondi 32, once a sanctuary for Rahul Ananda and the Joler Gaan ensemble, was not just a residence but a creative hub where countless songs and instruments were crafted." (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh violence: Folk musician Rahul Ananda's house looted, vandalised and charred to ashes by mob

The External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar chaired an all-party meeting on Tuesday (Aug 6) to discuss the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government and the Army's takeover in&nbsp;Bangladesh amid violent protests.

The meeting was attended by key leaders including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, DMK leader TR Baalu, and NCP leader Supriya Sule, among others.

"It's an ongoing situation. The government will take appropriate action at the right time," Jaishankar reportedly told the MPs.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saeeb-wazed-son-of-former-pm-hasina-tells-wion-bangladesh-will-be-the-next-pakistan-747515">Sajeeb Wazed, son of Ex-PM Hasina, tells WION: 'Bangladesh will be next Pak'</a>

He also informed that the government is monitoring the situation and is in touch with the Bangladeshi Army - which is set to form an interim government.

The foreign minister briefed the leaders about the current situation in the violence-hit nation and the steps taken by the Indian government to address the possible security, economic, and diplomatic consequences of this situation.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. 
 
Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended. <a href="https://t.co/tiitk5M5zn">pic.twitter.com/tiitk5M5zn</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1820688949305597964?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Leader of the Opposition (LoP) Rahul asked three key questions during the all-party meeting on the situation in Bangladesh.

According to sources, Gandhi asked what is government's short-term and long-term approach in dealing with the diplomatic consequences of the power shift in Bangladesh.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-mujibur-rahmans-rise-to-sheikh-hasinas-fall-a-bangladesh-timeline-747559">From Mujibur Rahman's rise to Sheikh Hasina's fall: A Bangladesh timeline</a>

Secondly, he asked if there could be an involvement of foreign powers, specifically Pakistan, in the developments in Bangladesh and if New Delhi had foreseen the dramatic turn of events in Bangladesh.

<h2>Hasina flees to India</h2>

Sheikh Hasina on Monday (Aug&nbsp;5) arrived in India after fleeing her violence-hit nation. The Bangladeshi leader, who as per reports was expected to only make a pit stop in India, will stay in the nation until granted political asylum in a third country.

According to reports, Hasina is likely to leave for London later, where she may seek political asylum.

However, there is no confirmation on whether the UK has offered asylum to her.

(With inputs from agencies)

The External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar chaired an all-party meeting on Tuesday (Aug 6) to discuss the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government and the Army's takeover in Bangladesh amid violent protests.

The External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar chaired an all-party meeting on Tuesday (Aug 6) to discuss the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government and the Army's takeover in Bangladesh amid violent protests. The meeting was attended by key leaders including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, DMK leader TR Baalu, and NCP leader Supriya Sule, among others. "It's an ongoing situation. The government will take appropriate action at the right time," Jaishankar reportedly told the MPs. Also read: Sajeeb Wazed, son of Ex-PM Hasina, tells WION: 'Bangladesh will be next Pak' He also informed that the government is monitoring the situation and is in touch with the Bangladeshi Army - which is set to form an interim government. The foreign minister briefed the leaders about the current situation in the violence-hit nation and the steps taken by the Indian government to address the possible security, economic, and diplomatic consequences of this situation. Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended. pic.twitter.com/tiitk5M5zn — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 6, 2024 × The Leader of the Opposition (LoP) Rahul asked three key questions during the all-party meeting on the situation in Bangladesh. According to sources, Gandhi asked what is government's short-term and long-term approach in dealing with the diplomatic consequences of the power shift in Bangladesh. Also read: From Mujibur Rahman's rise to Sheikh Hasina's fall: A Bangladesh timeline Secondly, he asked if there could be an involvement of foreign powers, specifically Pakistan, in the developments in Bangladesh and if New Delhi had foreseen the dramatic turn of events in Bangladesh. Hasina flees to India Sheikh Hasina on Monday (Aug 5) arrived in India after fleeing her violence-hit nation. The Bangladeshi leader, who as per reports was expected to only make a pit stop in India, will stay in the nation until granted political asylum in a third country. According to reports, Hasina is likely to leave for London later, where she may seek political asylum. However, there is no confirmation on whether the UK has offered asylum to her. (With inputs from agencies)

Govt will take appropriate action at the right time: Jaishankar on Bangladesh crisis

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina safely arrived in India on Monday (Aug 5) after fleeing her violence-hit nation.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) and top security officials thoroughly coordinated her flight, implementing advanced measures to ensure her secure passage to Hindon Airbase in Ghaziabad.

Sheikh Hasina’s arrival in India

Indian Air Force radars noticed a low-flying aircraft approaching from Bangladesh on Monday noon.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saeeb-wazed-son-of-former-pm-hasina-tells-wion-bangladesh-will-be-the-next-pakistan-747515">Sajeeb Wazed, son of Ex-PM Hasina, tells WION: 'Bangladesh will be next Pak'</a>

Identified as carrying Sheikh Hasina, air defense personnel permitted the plane to enter Indian airspace. To strengthen security, two Rafale fighter jets from the 101 squadron at Hashimara airbase in West Bengal were deployed, patrolling over Bihar and Jharkhand as told to news agency ANI.

Coordinated high security efforts

Indian authorities, aware of Hasina's dismissal and possible threats, took all essential safety measures. Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari and Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi oversaw the operation, convening a high-level meeting with intelligence chiefs and Lieutenant General Johnson Philip Mathew, the Integrated Defence Staff chief, to review the situation.

High-level meeting: Ajit Doval meets Hasina on her arrival

Around 5:45 PM, Hasina's jet landed at Hindon airbase in Ghaziabad. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval received her upon arrival and held an hour-long meeting to discuss the current crisis in Bangladesh and her immediate plans.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-mujibur-rahmans-rise-to-sheikh-hasinas-fall-a-bangladesh-timeline-747559">From Mujibur Rahman's rise to Sheikh Hasina's fall: A Bangladesh timeline</a>

Following the discussion, Doval briefed the Cabinet Committee on Security, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with key ministers, including Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S&nbsp;Jaishankar, and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in attendance.

Background of Bangladesh unrest

The unrest started with protests against employment quotas, which escalated into widespread demonstrations demanding Hasina’s ouster. Her resignation followed an aggressive crackdown on these protests.&nbsp;

As news of Hasina's departure spread, the impulsive crowds took to the streets, vandalising public property, including a statue of her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

Later in a national address, Army Chief General Waqar-uz-Zaman announced the formation of an interim government.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina safely arrived in India on Monday (Aug 5) after fleeing her violence-hit nation. The Indian Air Force (IAF) and top security officials thoroughly coordinated her flight, implementing advanced measures to ensure her secure passage to Hindon Airbase in Ghaziabad.

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina safely arrived in India on Monday (Aug 5) after fleeing her violence-hit nation. The Indian Air Force (IAF) and top security officials thoroughly coordinated her flight, implementing advanced measures to ensure her secure passage to Hindon Airbase in Ghaziabad. Sheikh Hasina’s arrival in India Indian Air Force radars noticed a low-flying aircraft approaching from Bangladesh on Monday noon. Also read: Sajeeb Wazed, son of Ex-PM Hasina, tells WION: 'Bangladesh will be next Pak' Identified as carrying Sheikh Hasina, air defense personnel permitted the plane to enter Indian airspace. To strengthen security, two Rafale fighter jets from the 101 squadron at Hashimara airbase in West Bengal were deployed, patrolling over Bihar and Jharkhand as told to news agency ANI. Coordinated high security efforts Indian authorities, aware of Hasina's dismissal and possible threats, took all essential safety measures. Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari and Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi oversaw the operation, convening a high-level meeting with intelligence chiefs and Lieutenant General Johnson Philip Mathew, the Integrated Defence Staff chief, to review the situation. High-level meeting: Ajit Doval meets Hasina on her arrival Around 5:45 PM, Hasina's jet landed at Hindon airbase in Ghaziabad. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval received her upon arrival and held an hour-long meeting to discuss the current crisis in Bangladesh and her immediate plans. Also read: From Mujibur Rahman's rise to Sheikh Hasina's fall: A Bangladesh timeline Following the discussion, Doval briefed the Cabinet Committee on Security, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with key ministers, including Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in attendance. Background of Bangladesh unrest The unrest started with protests against employment quotas, which escalated into widespread demonstrations demanding Hasina’s ouster. Her resignation followed an aggressive crackdown on these protests. As news of Hasina's departure spread, the impulsive crowds took to the streets, vandalising public property, including a statue of her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Later in a national address, Army Chief General Waqar-uz-Zaman announced the formation of an interim government. (With inputs from agencies)

How Rafale jets and NSA Doval ensured Hasina’s security after she fled Bangladesh

Bangladesh Police have said that they have identified the man behind the ‘blasphemous incident’ in Comilla which triggered nationwide communal violence against Hindus in the past week.

The culprit has been identified as Iqbal Hossain, 35, from Sujanagar area of Comilla city. However, he is yet to be arrested.

According to the Dhaka Tribune, the police were able to zero in on the identity of the accused after analysing the CCTV footage at the venue where the Hindu holy festival of Durga Puja was taking place.

The CCTV footage showed that on October 13, Iqbal took the Islamic holy book Quran from a mosque and placed it on the knee of a statue of the Hindu god Hanuman in the shrine.

He was later seen walking away with the Hindu God’s club in his hand.

Comilla Superintendent of Police (SP) Farooq Ahmed confirmed the identity on Wednesday. Police say Iqbal Hossain is a drifter. It is still unknown whether he has any involvement with any political parties.

Police have filed four cases over the Comilla incident and arrested 41 people till now. Of them, four were Iqbal’s associates.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/hours-after-pms-warning-iskcon-temple-vandalised-in-bangladesh-421103">Hours after PM's warning, ISKCON temple vandalised in Bangladesh</a>

Amena Begum, Iqbal's mother, claimed that Iqbal was a drug addict and used to torture his family members in various ways.

“He loved to stay at different shrines across the country,” she was quoted as saying.

Amena claimed Iqbal had some psychological issues for the last 10 years as he had been stabbed in the stomach by some neighbours.

Watch

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-give-us-justice-hindus-in-bangladesh-stage-protests-422144/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to the Dhaka Tribune, his younger brother Raihan had been helping the police since Friday to find Iqbal.

Iqbal’s family stated that if Iqbal was really guilty, then he should be punished.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islam-is-not-our-state-religion-will-revert-to-1972-constitution-bangladesh-minister-after-attack-on-hindus-421645">Islam is not our state religion, will revert to 1972 constitution: Bangladesh Minister after attack on Hindus</a>

Raihan also said that Iqbal might have been provoked by someone or some groups.

Earlier, Bangladesh home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal said authorities had identified the person behind the Comilla incident.

“I hope the prime suspect in the Comilla incident will be arrested soon… he has been changing locations frequently to avoid getting caught. We’ll be able to unfold the Comilla incident once he’s arrested,” he said.

Police arrested another person Md Foyez Ahmed, 41, on October 13 and got him on remand to interrogate him. He posted a Facebook live from the festival venue on that day that went viral.

After the video went viral on Facebook earlier this week, mobs of more than 500 people gathered in Cumilla and neighbouring districts over the alleged blasphemy.

About 10 Hindu temples and shrines were attacked and vandalised by the crowds, who threw stones and smashed statues of the Hindu gods.

The anti-Hindu violence continued the following day, where more than 80 special shrines set up for the Durga Puja festival were attacked, with about 150 Hindus injured and two killed.

(With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh Police have said that they have identified the man behind the ‘blasphemous incident’ in Comilla which triggered nationwide communal violence against Hindus in the past week.

Bangladesh Police have said that they have identified the man behind the ‘blasphemous incident’ in Comilla which triggered nationwide communal violence against Hindus in the past week. The culprit has been identified as Iqbal Hossain, 35, from Sujanagar area of Comilla city. However, he is yet to be arrested. According to the Dhaka Tribune, the police were able to zero in on the identity of the accused after analysing the CCTV footage at the venue where the Hindu holy festival of Durga Puja was taking place. The CCTV footage showed that on October 13, Iqbal took the Islamic holy book Quran from a mosque and placed it on the knee of a statue of the Hindu god Hanuman in the shrine. He was later seen walking away with the Hindu God’s club in his hand. Comilla Superintendent of Police (SP) Farooq Ahmed confirmed the identity on Wednesday. Police say Iqbal Hossain is a drifter. It is still unknown whether he has any involvement with any political parties. Police have filed four cases over the Comilla incident and arrested 41 people till now. Of them, four were Iqbal’s associates. Also read | Hours after PM's warning, ISKCON temple vandalised in Bangladesh Amena Begum, Iqbal's mother, claimed that Iqbal was a drug addict and used to torture his family members in various ways. “He loved to stay at different shrines across the country,” she was quoted as saying. Amena claimed Iqbal had some psychological issues for the last 10 years as he had been stabbed in the stomach by some neighbours. Watch According to the Dhaka Tribune, his younger brother Raihan had been helping the police since Friday to find Iqbal. Iqbal’s family stated that if Iqbal was really guilty, then he should be punished. Also read | Islam is not our state religion, will revert to 1972 constitution: Bangladesh Minister after attack on Hindus Raihan also said that Iqbal might have been provoked by someone or some groups. Earlier, Bangladesh home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal said authorities had identified the person behind the Comilla incident. “I hope the prime suspect in the Comilla incident will be arrested soon… he has been changing locations frequently to avoid getting caught. We’ll be able to unfold the Comilla incident once he’s arrested,” he said. Police arrested another person Md Foyez Ahmed, 41, on October 13 and got him on remand to interrogate him. He posted a Facebook live from the festival venue on that day that went viral. After the video went viral on Facebook earlier this week, mobs of more than 500 people gathered in Cumilla and neighbouring districts over the alleged blasphemy. About 10 Hindu temples and shrines were attacked and vandalised by the crowds, who threw stones and smashed statues of the Hindu gods. The anti-Hindu violence continued the following day, where more than 80 special shrines set up for the Durga Puja festival were attacked, with about 150 Hindus injured and two killed. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh anti-Hindu violence: Man placing Holy Quran at Comilla shrine identified as Iqbal Hossain

Former US Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard while condemning the violence against Hindus in Bangladesh which erupted during Durga Puja said that, "for jihadists to believe it's pleasing to God to burn and destroy temples shows how far away from God they really are."

In a series of tweets, Gabbard spoke out against violence which started last week. "It broke my heart to see such hate and violence directed towards devotees of God in their temples in Bangladesh," the former US Congresswoman said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Violence against Hindus in Bangladesh: for jihadists to believe it's pleasing to God to burn and destroy temples shows how far away from God they really are. <a href="https://t.co/uoYFxqAnfz">pic.twitter.com/uoYFxqAnfz</a>
— Tulsi Gabbard 🌺 (@TulsiGabbard) <a href="https://twitter.com/TulsiGabbard/status/1450975896920203267?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The violence reportedly erupted after an alleged "blasphemy incident" in Comilla where the Hindu holy festival of Durga Puja was taking place.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-anti-hindu-violence-man-placing-holy-quran-at-comilla-shrine-identified-as-iqbal-hossain-422522">Also Read:&nbsp;Bangladesh anti-Hindu violence: Man identified as Iqbal Hossain</a>

The violence spread to several locations in Comilla as Hindu shops were reportedly targeted. At least 40 people were injured in the clashes.

Gabbard said, "It is time for the supposedly secular government of Bangladesh to protect that country’s religious minorities, including Hindus, Christians, and Buddhists, from the jihadist forces of hate."&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
(1) It broke my heart to see such hate and violence directed towards devotees of God in their temples in Bangladesh. For these jihadists to believe it’s pleasing to God to burn and destroy temples and the murti of such a saintly person … <a href="https://t.co/ZJUzlJTGJq">pic.twitter.com/ZJUzlJTGJq</a>
— Tulsi Gabbard 🌺 (@TulsiGabbard) <a href="https://twitter.com/TulsiGabbard/status/1450771369893892098?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The ex-US Congresswoman while slamming the violence and those behind it, added: "God is love, and his true servants embody and manifest that love in this world."

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had also condemned the violence as authorities deployed paramilitary forces to establish peace in the area.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-violence-police-arrests-hundreds-for-violence-against-hindus-422045">Also Read:&nbsp;Bangladesh violence: Police arrests hundreds for violence against Hindus</a>

The police have reportedly identified the person behind the incident who triggered the violence. A 35-year-old man from Sujanagar area in Comilla was identified after authorities reviewed CCTV footage, although, reports said he hasn't been arrested.

Police have reportedly arrested 41 people involved in the incident even as four cases have been filed.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Former US Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard while condemning the violence against Hindus in Bangladesh which erupted during Durga Puja said that, "for jihadists to believe it's pleasing to God to burn and destroy temples shows how far away from God they really are.

Former US Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard while condemning the violence against Hindus in Bangladesh which erupted during Durga Puja said that, "for jihadists to believe it's pleasing to God to burn and destroy temples shows how far away from God they really are." In a series of tweets, Gabbard spoke out against violence which started last week. "It broke my heart to see such hate and violence directed towards devotees of God in their temples in Bangladesh," the former US Congresswoman said. Violence against Hindus in Bangladesh: for jihadists to believe it's pleasing to God to burn and destroy temples shows how far away from God they really are. pic.twitter.com/uoYFxqAnfz — Tulsi Gabbard 🌺 (@TulsiGabbard) October 21, 2021 × The violence reportedly erupted after an alleged "blasphemy incident" in Comilla where the Hindu holy festival of Durga Puja was taking place. Also Read: Bangladesh anti-Hindu violence: Man identified as Iqbal Hossain The violence spread to several locations in Comilla as Hindu shops were reportedly targeted. At least 40 people were injured in the clashes. Gabbard said, "It is time for the supposedly secular government of Bangladesh to protect that country’s religious minorities, including Hindus, Christians, and Buddhists, from the jihadist forces of hate." (1) It broke my heart to see such hate and violence directed towards devotees of God in their temples in Bangladesh. For these jihadists to believe it’s pleasing to God to burn and destroy temples and the murti of such a saintly person … pic.twitter.com/ZJUzlJTGJq — Tulsi Gabbard 🌺 (@TulsiGabbard) October 20, 2021 × The ex-US Congresswoman while slamming the violence and those behind it, added: "God is love, and his true servants embody and manifest that love in this world." Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had also condemned the violence as authorities deployed paramilitary forces to establish peace in the area. Also Read: Bangladesh violence: Police arrests hundreds for violence against Hindus The police have reportedly identified the person behind the incident who triggered the violence. A 35-year-old man from Sujanagar area in Comilla was identified after authorities reviewed CCTV footage, although, reports said he hasn't been arrested. Police have reportedly arrested 41 people involved in the incident even as four cases have been filed. (With inputs from Agencies)

For jihadists to believe it's pleasing to God: Tulsi Gabbard condemns Durga Puja violence in Bangladesh

Former captain of Bangladesh cricket team Mashrafe Mortaza has come forward condemning the anti-Hindu violence taking place in various corners of Bangladesh. In a Facebook post, he said this was “not the red and green we wanted to see”. This was an apparent reference to the colours that make the Bangladesh flag.

“We witnessed two losses yesterday. One was Bangladesh cricket team’s, which was painful. The other was of the whole Bangladesh – one that has shattered my heart. This is not the red and green we wanted to see. So many dreams, so many hard-earned victories lost in a flash. May Allah guide us,” he wrote in his Facebook post written in Bangla.

Bangladesh, a Muslim-majority nation, has a huge cultural influence of Hindu festival of Durga Puja in which Goddess Durga is worshipped. This year however, the celebration of the festival has been marred by anti-Hindu violence.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-anti-hindu-violence-man-placing-holy-quran-at-comilla-shrine-identified-as-iqbal-hossain-422522">Bangladesh anti-Hindu violence: Man placing Holy Quran at Comilla shrine identified as Iqbal Hossain</a>

Mortaza was apparently referring to the communal violence that took place on Sunday in the town of Rangpur where at least 29 Hindu homes were set on fire.

Last week a copy of Quran was placed in a Durga Puja pandal in Nanua Dighir Par in Comilla.

Spate of violence even prompted Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to publicly condemn the acts. She warned that those spreading violence will not be spared. Till now, at least 72 cases have been registered and 475 persons have been arrested in Bangladesh.

Former captain of Bangladesh cricket team Mashrafe Mortaza has come forward condemning the anti-Hindu violence taking place in various corners of Bangladesh. In a Facebook post, he said this was “not the red and green we wanted to see”.

Former captain of Bangladesh cricket team Mashrafe Mortaza has come forward condemning the anti-Hindu violence taking place in various corners of Bangladesh. In a Facebook post, he said this was “not the red and green we wanted to see”. This was an apparent reference to the colours that make the Bangladesh flag. “We witnessed two losses yesterday. One was Bangladesh cricket team’s, which was painful. The other was of the whole Bangladesh – one that has shattered my heart. This is not the red and green we wanted to see. So many dreams, so many hard-earned victories lost in a flash. May Allah guide us,” he wrote in his Facebook post written in Bangla. Bangladesh, a Muslim-majority nation, has a huge cultural influence of Hindu festival of Durga Puja in which Goddess Durga is worshipped. This year however, the celebration of the festival has been marred by anti-Hindu violence. Also Read | Bangladesh anti-Hindu violence: Man placing Holy Quran at Comilla shrine identified as Iqbal Hossain Mortaza was apparently referring to the communal violence that took place on Sunday in the town of Rangpur where at least 29 Hindu homes were set on fire. Last week a copy of Quran was placed in a Durga Puja pandal in Nanua Dighir Par in Comilla. Spate of violence even prompted Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to publicly condemn the acts. She warned that those spreading violence will not be spared. Till now, at least 72 cases have been registered and 475 persons have been arrested in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh cricketer Mashrafe Mortaza condemns anti-Hindu violence in a Facebook post

Main suspect behind the ttacks on Hindus in Bangladesh have been arrested. A 35-year-old individual was identified using CCTV footage. Meanwhile, atleast 7 people died in violence against Hindus in Bangladesh.

Attack on Hindus in Bangladesh: Main suspect arrested

Five people have been killed so far in the ongoing communal violence against Hindus in Bangladesh. The International Society for Krishna Consciousness or ISKCON has now urged the Sheikh Hasina's government to take action against those behind the violence.

Violence in Bangladesh: Hindus attacked, temples vandalised. Death toll touches 5

In a shocking display of intolerance and bigotry, a group of radical Islamists attacked over 10 Hindu families on Sunday at Korbanpur village under Muradnagar Upazila in the Comilla district of Bangladesh.

Bangladesh: Muslim mob attacks, burn homes of hindus over a FB post

The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the killing of a Hindu monastery worker who was stabbed to death in Bangladesh, a monitoring service tracking militant online activity reported a day after the slaying. 
 
It was the third killing of a member of religious minorities in the majority-Muslim country that the group has taken responsibility for in the past week. 
 
The claim was carried by Islamic State&#39;s Amaq news agency, Site Intelligence Group, a US-based monitoring service said today. 
 
Police said unidentified assailants attacked Nitya Ranjan Pandey, 60, while he was walking in the northwestern district of Pabna early on Friday morning. 
 
&quot;He was found lying in a pool of blood,&quot; district police chief Alamgir Kabir said, adding that no one saw the attackers. 
 
Hundreds of suspects have been held across the country after police launched a week-long crackdown on militants after a wave of gruesome killings. 
 
In the past week alone, an elderly Hindu priest and a Christian shopkeeper were hacked to death - both of which Islamic State claimed responsibility for. The Muslim wife of a counter-terrorism police official was also killed. 
 
Militants have killed more than 30 people in Bangladesh, including members of religious minorities, liberal bloggers and academics, since February last year. 
 
According to SITE, the&nbsp;Islamic State has claimed responsibility for 21 of the attacks since its first claim in September last year and al-Qaeda has claimed most of the rest. 
 
The government denies either group having a presence in Bangladesh and says domestic militants are responsible. 
 
Five suspected members of the outlawed Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen were killed in shootouts after the woman was stabbed and shot dead on Sunday. 
 
Last month, police announced $23,000 in rewards for information leading to the arrest of six militants of Ansarullah Bangla Team, another outlawed group they believe is behind the violence. 
 
Analysts say a climate of intolerance in Bangladeshi politics has both motivated and provided cover for perpetrators of religious hate crimes. 
 
The government blames the growing violence on political opponents linked to Islamist parties, that it accuses of creating chaos and preventing courts from going ahead with war crimes trials related to the 1971 war of independence.

A Hindu priest and a Christian shopkeeper were hacked to death by the Islamic State

The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the killing of a Hindu monastery worker who was stabbed to death in Bangladesh, a monitoring service tracking militant online activity reported a day after the slaying. It was the third killing of a member of religious minorities in the majority-Muslim country that the group has taken responsibility for in the past week. The claim was carried by Islamic State's Amaq news agency, Site Intelligence Group, a US-based monitoring service said today. Police said unidentified assailants attacked Nitya Ranjan Pandey, 60, while he was walking in the northwestern district of Pabna early on Friday morning. "He was found lying in a pool of blood," district police chief Alamgir Kabir said, adding that no one saw the attackers. Hundreds of suspects have been held across the country after police launched a week-long crackdown on militants after a wave of gruesome killings. In the past week alone, an elderly Hindu priest and a Christian shopkeeper were hacked to death - both of which Islamic State claimed responsibility for. The Muslim wife of a counter-terrorism police official was also killed. Militants have killed more than 30 people in Bangladesh, including members of religious minorities, liberal bloggers and academics, since February last year. According to SITE, the Islamic State has claimed responsibility for 21 of the attacks since its first claim in September last year and al-Qaeda has claimed most of the rest. The government denies either group having a presence in Bangladesh and says domestic militants are responsible. Five suspected members of the outlawed Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen were killed in shootouts after the woman was stabbed and shot dead on Sunday. Last month, police announced $23,000 in rewards for information leading to the arrest of six militants of Ansarullah Bangla Team, another outlawed group they believe is behind the violence. Analysts say a climate of intolerance in Bangladeshi politics has both motivated and provided cover for perpetrators of religious hate crimes. The government blames the growing violence on political opponents linked to Islamist parties, that it accuses of creating chaos and preventing courts from going ahead with war crimes trials related to the 1971 war of independence.

Islamic State claims third attack in week on Bangladesh minorities

Bangladesh police have shot dead five suspected members of a banned group in three days, including one on Wednesday, as security forces stepped up the hunt for Islamist militants behind a series of attacks in the majority-Muslim nation. 
 
Five suspected members of the outlawed Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen, an Islamic fundamentalist organisation operating in Bangladesh, have been killed in shootouts since the wife of a prominent counter-terrorism police official was shot dead by suspected Islamist militants on Sunday, police said. 
 
An elderly Hindu priest and a veteran Christian have also been hacked to death in attacks claimed by the Islamic State. 
 
Since February last year, militants in Bangladesh have killed more than 30 people, including liberal bloggers and academics and members of religious minorities. 
 
Islamic State and al-Qaeda have claimed responsibility for most of the killings but the government denies that either group has a presence in the country of 160 million people. 
 
Police says two outlawed groups, Ansarullah Bangla Team and Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen, are behind the violence.

The militants belonged to Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen, a banned organisation, that allegedly shot the wife of a counter-terrorism police official

Bangladesh police have shot dead five suspected members of a banned group in three days, including one on Wednesday, as security forces stepped up the hunt for Islamist militants behind a series of attacks in the majority-Muslim nation. Five suspected members of the outlawed Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen, an Islamic fundamentalist organisation operating in Bangladesh, have been killed in shootouts since the wife of a prominent counter-terrorism police official was shot dead by suspected Islamist militants on Sunday, police said. An elderly Hindu priest and a veteran Christian have also been hacked to death in attacks claimed by the Islamic State. Since February last year, militants in Bangladesh have killed more than 30 people, including liberal bloggers and academics and members of religious minorities. Islamic State and al-Qaeda have claimed responsibility for most of the killings but the government denies that either group has a presence in the country of 160 million people. Police says two outlawed groups, Ansarullah Bangla Team and Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen, are behind the violence.

Bangladesh police kill five suspected militants amid crackdown

bangladesh-violence

Bangladesh Violence, News on Bangladesh Violence, stories on Bangladesh Violence, articles on Bangladesh Violence, Bangladesh Violence stories at Wion, Bangladesh Violence news, Bangladesh Violence latest news

bangladesh violence