Islamists Attack ISKCON Temple in Sylhet, Assault Sadhus [Sylhet, Bangladesh]

(Reported as seen)

Hindu minorities and temples continue to face threats in Muslim-majority Bangladesh. The latest incident involves an attack on an ISKCON-managed Hindu temple in Krishnapur village, located in the Shivbari Upazila of Sylhet district.

On the morning of May 13, a group of Islamists attempted to seize the land belonging to the temple. When the temple’s priest and sadhus (holy men) resisted, they were reportedly dragged and beaten by the attackers. The Islamists also verbally abused the sadhus, using obscene language.

In the wake of the incident, the ISKCON Krishnapur temple authorities shared a video of the attack on their official Facebook page, alleging that there had been ongoing attempts to grab the temple land.

A formal complaint has been lodged with the authorities, but as of now, no arrests have been made.

This attack is part of a broader pattern of violence and intimidation faced by Hindu minorities in Bangladesh. Hindu temples and communities have often been targeted by Islamist groups seeking to assert dominance and seize property.

The incident underscores the urgent need for stronger protection and swift justice to safeguard the rights and safety of religious minorities in Bangladesh.