Bangladesh: Canadian MP voices concern over attacks on Hindus

Canadian MP Chandra Arya on Monday expressed deep concern over the ongoing violence against Hindus in Bangladesh.

In a statement in the Canadian Parliament, Indian origin Arya highlighted the troubling situation faced by religious minorities, including Hindus, Buddhists and Christians in Bangladesh, reports United News of Bangladesh (UNB).

The Canadian MP shared his statement in his verified Facebook page. He noted that during periods of instability in Bangladesh, these groups, especially Hindus, often suffer the most. “Every time there is instability in Bangladesh, religious minorities, particularly Hindus, face the brunt,” he said.

The canadian lawmaker also said that the share of religious minorities in the population of Bangladesh has significantly decreased since it achieved its independence in 1971, reports UNB. In this connection, he said that from 23.1 percent, including about 20 percent Hindus, it has now come down to just about 9.6 percent, including about 8.5 percent Hindus.

“Canadian Hindus who have families in Bangladesh are concerned about the security and safety of their families, their temples and properties,” Arya said while speaking in the parliament.

He also said that Bangladeshi minorities who have their families in Bangladesh will be holding a rally on Parliament Hill next Monday (September 23) to highlight the current situation there, reports UNB. “They will be joined by Canadian Buddhists and Christians who have families in Bangladesh,” he added.

By – Navalsang Parmar (Dhaka)