Hindu Teacher Forced to Resign by Radical Students [Jessore, Bangladesh]

(Reported as seen)

The situation for Hindu minorities in Bangladesh has deteriorated significantly following the resignation of Sheikh Hasina, with a surge in violence and targeted harassment by Islamic radical elements. Vandalism, looting, and assaults on Hindu communities, including rapes and gang-rapes of Hindu women, have become alarmingly common. Despite assurances from the head of the Interim Government, Muhammad Yunus, to protect Hindu minorities, the ground reality paints a grim picture of increasing intolerance and persecution.

In a disturbing trend, Islamic extremists, along with radicalized students, have begun targeting Hindu teachers and professors across schools, colleges, and universities. These educators are being pressured into resigning from their positions, often without any legitimate cause or due process.

A recent incident from the Jessore district exemplifies this growing menace. On August 18th, Khuku Rani Biswas, the head of Jessore Nursing Institute, became the latest victim of such sectarian harassment. Radical students, driven by extremist ideologies, besieged her office, demanding her resignation. They kept her confined for five hours, accusing her of corruption—a claim made without any evidence or investigation. Under immense pressure and fearing for her safety, Khuku Rani Biswas was forced to resign from her position.

This incident is not isolated. Over the past few days, several Hindu teachers and professors across different districts in Bangladesh have faced similar persecution. Many have been compelled to resign under threats and harassment, reflecting a broader, organized effort to marginalize Hindu educators in the country.

The targeting of Hindu intellectuals and educators is part of a wider campaign by radical elements to suppress and drive out religious minorities. This disturbing trend underscores the vulnerability of Hindu communities in Bangladesh, where the promise of protection from the interim government remains unfulfilled.

The forced resignation of Khuku Rani Biswas and other Hindu educators highlights the urgent need for intervention to protect minority rights in Bangladesh. The international community, along with human rights organizations, must call on the Bangladeshi government to take decisive action against these radical elements and ensure the safety and security of all citizens, regardless of their religious affiliation.

Without immediate and effective measures, the situation for Hindus in Bangladesh could worsen, leading to further violence and instability in the region. The protection of educators, who play a crucial role in shaping the future, is especially vital to preserving communal harmony and ensuring the country’s progress.