Three Hindu temples vandalised in Chattogram.
On Friday, November 29, 2024, a shocking incident of vandalism unfolded in Chattogram, Bangladesh, where three Hindu temples were attacked by a slogan-shouting mob. The Shantaneshwari Matri Temple, the nearby Shoni Temple, and the Shantaneshwari Kalibari Temple were targeted around 2:30 p.m. in Harish Chandra Munsef Lane, a locality known for its cultural and religious significance.
Eyewitnesses reported that a group of unidentified individuals stormed the temples, causing extensive damage to the premises and desecrating sacred idols. The attackers hurled stones, broke windows, and defiled religious symbols, leaving the temples in disarray. Residents expressed fear and outrage, describing the attack as an assault on their religious freedom and heritage. The local Hindu community, already a vulnerable minority, now fears further violence and a lack of security.
Chattogram, a bustling port city, has recently witnessed unrest following the arrest of a former International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) member on sedition charges. The individual allegedly made remarks critical of the government, sparking protests and accusations of inciting communal tensions. The vandalism of the temples appears to be a direct consequence of this unrest.
Law enforcement agencies responded quickly, cordoning off the area and launching an investigation to identify the perpetrators. The Chattogram Metropolitan Police Commissioner assured the public that the culprits would be brought to justice. Authorities have also promised increased security measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Political leaders, activists, and civil society organisations condemned the attack, calling it a violation of religious freedom and human rights. They urged the government to enhance security for minority religious sites and take stricter action against those inciting violence.
International human rights groups have also expressed concern over the rising communal tensions in Bangladesh, a country known for its history of religious harmony. The attack in Chattogram highlights the growing challenges faced by religious minorities and underscores the urgent need for collective efforts to protect religious diversity.
Religious leaders from various faiths, including Hindu, Muslim, Christian, and Buddhist communities, have called for peace and solidarity. In a joint statement, they urged citizens to reject violence and work towards fostering interfaith harmony.
The incident has also sparked debates on social media, with hashtags like #SaveHinduTemples and #JusticeForChattogram trending as citizens demand justice.
As investigations continue, community leaders have called for additional police deployment and the installation of surveillance systems around religious sites. The government faces mounting pressure to address the root causes of the unrest and protect minority communities. For now, the people of Chattogram wait anxiously for justice and a return to peace.