Imam of Delhi’s Jama Masjid urges B'desh to protect Hindu minorities

New Delhi: The Shahi Imam of Delhi’s Jama Masjid, Syed Ahmed Bukhari, on Tuesday condemned the alleged mistreatment of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh, calling it “reprehensible” and urging the country’s interim government to take immediate measures to prevent such acts.

India has voiced concerns over attacks on minorities, particularly Hindus, in Bangladesh since Sheikh Hasina’s resignation as prime minister in August, which followed months of student-led protests.

Bukhari highlighted the importance of addressing the situation, noting Bangladesh’s historical and cultural ties with India.

He stated, “As a credible neighbour, a close ally of Bangladesh, and a custodian of shared cultural heritage, I expect the current head of Bangladesh, Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel laureate, to take immediate steps to curb any injustices against the Hindu minority.” He stressed the importance of Yunus’ international reputation, which should remain untarnished in light of recent events.

Bukhari noted the presence of alternative political forces with differing ideologies that now hold power and have popular support. He referred to these developments as factors contributing to Hasina’s departure.

He pointed out that as a Muslim-majority country, Islam and Islamic jurisprudence inherently do not allow any form of prejudice or injustice against minorities in Bangladesh.

Bukhari also highlighted that since Bangladesh’s establishment, India’s national leadership, media, civil society, and influential circles have maintained close ties with Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, his daughter Sheikh Hasina, and their party, the Awami League. He reiterated that Bangladesh has historically been a strong ally, especially in terms of diplomacy, regional affairs, and support for the Muslim world.

Bukhari observed that after Hasina’s departure, the resulting backlash included both Muslim and non-Muslim supporters of the Awami League, who became targets of unrest following her removal.

He emphasized that until now, the situation had remained an internal matter for Bangladesh. However, he condemned the ongoing injustices, assaults, and unilateral actions against the Hindu minority, asserting that there is no justification for such behavior.

He urged the Bangladeshi government to recognize the significant role India played in the country's independence, its subsequent development, and the unparalleled support provided to millions of refugees.

With PTI inputs