Indian Americans push for sanctions against Bangladesh, citing minority persecution

Indian Americans are ramping up efforts to engage the incoming Trump administration and Congress to take decisive action against the Bangladeshi government over the alleged persecution of Hindu minorities.

Dr. Bharat Barai, an influential community leader, has voiced confidence in President-elect Donald Trump’s potential to address these issues, possibly through economic sanctions.

Dr. Barai, an Indian American physician, emphasized Trump’s bold stance on the persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh, pointing to his recent condemnation of violence targeting Hindus, Christians, and other minorities. "He is a bold person who might consider economic sanctions if the situation doesn't improve," Barai told PTI during an interview.

Barai called for urgent measures, citing Bangladesh’s reliance on garment exports, which make up 80% of the nation’s economy. He suggested that cutting off these exports could pressure the Bangladeshi regime to end the harassment of minorities.

During the annual Diwali celebrations at the US Capitol, attended by lawmakers and Indian Americans nationwide, Barai highlighted the community’s plans to advocate for action. "Hindu Americans will urge Congress to act if Bangladesh does not stop the persecution of minorities," he stated.

Barai also urged India to take a firm stance, suggesting sanctions from New Delhi if the harassment of minorities persists.

In a statement prior to the US elections, Trump condemned the violence in Bangladesh, attributing it to "total chaos" and vowing that such atrocities would not occur under his leadership. Trump also criticized the current administration, accusing them of ignoring Hindu communities globally and domestically. “We will Make America Strong Again and bring back peace through strength," Trump declared, pledging to protect Hindu Americans and counter the "anti-religion agenda of the radical left."

Barai raised concerns about alleged foreign interference in Bangladesh, describing the current caretaker government as a "puppet controlled by the military." He also suggested a broader conspiracy involving figures like George Soros and Peter Omidyar to undermine Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi while bolstering Rahul Gandhi’s political standing.

Reflecting on Trump’s visit to India three years ago, Barai alleged that the timing of riots in Delhi during the visit was orchestrated to discredit Modi’s leadership. He further criticized the influence of the "ultra-leftist woke lobby" and called for measures to curb their impact.