New York: In the wake of violence against the Hindu minority in Bangladesh, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ spokesperson declared a firm stance against racially motivated attacks and calls for violence.
“Our position is clear: we aim to quell the recent surge of violence in Bangladesh. We unequivocally oppose any racially motivated attacks or incitements to violence,” stated Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General, on Thursday.
This statement was in response to inquiries about the Secretary-General’s reaction to the assaults on Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. Since the resignation and subsequent departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to India on Monday, there have been reports of widespread vandalism of Hindu temples, homes, and businesses, including the deaths of at least two Hindu leaders associated with Hasina’s Awami League party.
The exodus of Hasina has led to increased media coverage of violence against minorities, notably the extensive damage to the residence of Rahul Ananda, the lead singer of the popular folk band Joler Gaan, forcing him and his family into hiding.
The violence, however, extends beyond the Hindu community. Following the collapse of the Hasina government on Monday, violence has claimed the lives of at least 232 people, raising the total fatalities to 560 since the start of the anti-quota protests in mid-July.
Regarding Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus’ appointment as the head of the interim government, Haq expressed the UN’s aspiration for an inclusive governmental formation process, adding, “We maintain this hope. Naturally, any reduction in violence and increased public restraint is welcome.”
In response to whether Secretary-General Guterres had extended congratulations or communicated with Yunus, Haq clarified that while Guterres had not made contact, the UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh, Gwyn Lewis, was present at the swearing-in ceremony.
