Bangladesh: Sheikh Hasina alleges ‘unspeakable torture’ of minorities in Christmas address, hits out at Yunus regime

Hasina attacks regime amid minority violence

Amid escalating violence against minorities in Bangladesh, ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in a Christmas address, launched a sharp attack on the Yunus regime, alleging that the “current ruling group” has seized power illegally and is inflicting “unspeakable torture” on minorities.

Opening her Christmas message by extending greetings to the nation, Hasina recalled that Bangladesh had long been a “shining example of communal harmony”.

“The father of the nation dreamed of a non-communal Bangladesh. Bangladesh Awami League has ensured the smooth living of people of all religions to realise that dream,” she said.

Turning to the present political situation, she added, “It is sad to say that the current ruling group that has seized illegal power is interfering with the freedom of people of all religions and communities to practice their own religion.”

Her remarks come as tensions remain high following the lynching of factory worker Dipu Chandra Das in Mymensingh. Das was accused of blasphemy by a co-worker, after which he was beaten, his body hanged and later set on fire.

Referring to attacks on minorities, Hasina said non-Muslims are being “subjected to unspeakable torture” under the current administration. She added, “It has also created examples of atrocities such as the burning of religious minorities.”

Concluding her speech, Hasina said she believes the “people of Bangladesh will not allow this difficult time to continue”, adding that the spirit of Christmas would help reinforce harmony between Christians and followers of other religions in the country.

“May dawn break through the darkness,” she said.

Meanwhile, local media reported on Thursday that another Hindu man has been beaten to death in Bangladesh, just days after the killing of Dipu Chandra Das.

Residents told Bangladeshi newspaper The Daily Star that the victim, Samrat, was allegedly the leader of a criminal gang known as the ‘Samrat Bahini’, which was involved in extortion and other activities. Samrat had fled the country following Sheikh Hasina’s ouster last year and had recently returned to his village, Hosendanga, in Kalimohor Union.