Recent reports of violence against Hindus in Bangladesh highlight how racial profiling and religious discrimination have real and dangerous consequences for minority communities. One of the most alarming incidents occurred in 2024 when a Hindu child was lynched in a police station in the presence of law enforcement and the army after being falsely accused of blasphemy. This case sheds light on the vulnerability of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh, where allegations of blasphemy, often based on false accusations or religious profiling, can result in deadly consequences.
Connection to Racial Profiling
In many cases, Hindus in Bangladesh are targeted not because of any proven offence but due to their religious identity. Blasphemy accusations are a tool of oppression often used to incite violence against minorities, particularly Hindus, by capitalizing on the heightened religious sensitivities of the majority Muslim population. The lynching of the Hindu child in the police station is a stark example of how racial profiling can manifest into brutal violence, especially when state authorities, who should be protecting all citizens, fail to intervene or actively participate in the victimization. This incident also highlights how the presence of the army and police, instead of providing protection, did nothing to stop the mob violence. It suggests a systemic bias and a culture of impunity, where religious minorities like Hindus are disproportionately viewed as suspects or “outsiders” and are often treated unfairly by law enforcement. The inability (or unwillingness) of the state to prevent such violence speaks to the broader consequences of racial and religious profiling, where minority communities cannot rely on state institutions for protection.
Pattern of Hindu Killings and Attacks
Over the years, Hindus in Bangladesh have been frequent victims of violence, often during moments of political or social unrest. For example, during the Durga Puja celebrations in 2021, several Hindu temples were attacked, homes were burned, and people were killed in mob violence after a false accusation of desecrating the Quran circulated. These attacks were sparked by unverified claims, and the reaction was fueled by long-standing negative perceptions and racial profiling of Hindus as “others” or “enemies of the faith.” These events are not isolated but part of a troubling pattern where communal violence and mob attacks are justified under the pretext of protecting religious sentiments, often leading to widespread attacks on Hindu communities. In many cases, law enforcement either stands by passively or fails to act swiftly, reinforcing the sense that minorities are not equal citizens under the law.
Broader Implications for Minorities (Hindus) in Bangladesh:
These incidents underline the broader issue of institutionalized bias and societal discrimination against Hindus and other religious minorities in Bangladesh. Racial profiling plays a critical role in creating a climate where violence against minorities is normalized, and accusations such as blasphemy are enough to incite deadly attacks without due process. The lack of accountability and complicity of authorities in such cases makes it even more dangerous for minorities. The lynching of the Hindu child and the recurring incidents of Hindu killings highlight how racial profiling feeds into the cycle of violence, marginalization, and insecurity for religious minorities in Bangladesh. It underscores the urgent need for reforms in the justice system, protection of minority rights, and efforts to combat religious profiling to prevent such tragedies from continuing. In conclusion, the systematic targeting of Hindus through racial profiling, false blasphemy accusations, and mob violence represents a grave threat to the safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh. It reflects deeper social and political issues that need to be addressed to ensure justice and equality for all citizens, regardless of their religious identity.
For those who don’t know what racial profiling is and how it is impacting minorities and specially Hindus in Bangladesh should read article from here.
Racial profiling is the practice of targeting individuals for suspicion of crime or unequal treatment based on their race, ethnicity, religion, or nationality rather than any concrete evidence or behavior. It often results in discrimination, unfair treatment, and violation of basic human rights, as certain groups are stereotyped as more likely to engage in criminal behavior or threats.
Dangers of Racial Profiling for Hindus and Other Minorities in Bangladesh
Discrimination and Marginalization: Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, and indigenous communities in Bangladesh face systemic discrimination, particularly in access to justice, jobs, education, and public services. Racial profiling further exacerbates their vulnerability as they are often subjected to suspicion or unequal treatment due to their identity.
Hindus in Bangladesh: Hindus in Bangladesh: Hindus in Bangladesh
Violence and Persecution: In Bangladesh, religious minorities, especially Hindus, have historically faced targeted violence during times of social or political unrest. Racial profiling can increase the risk of persecution as it perpetuates negative stereotypes, often making them easy targets for hate crimes, mob violence, or communal tensions.
Legal and Political Disempowerment: Racial profiling can lead to the alienation of minorities from the political process. In a country like Bangladesh, where Muslims constitute the overwhelming majority, minorities face difficulties in advocating for their rights. Being racially profiled could lead to harassment by law enforcement or discriminatory legal action, restricting their freedom and civil rights.
Economic and Social Exclusion: Racial profiling can lead to economic exclusion as minorities might face barriers in getting jobs or participating in business due to stigma or assumptions based on their identity. They may also be denied equal access to social services like healthcare and education, leading to long-term socio-economic disadvantages.
Psychological Impact: Being racially profiled can have a deep psychological effect on individuals and communities. It creates fear, insecurity, and a sense of powerlessness. For Hindu and other minority groups, the constant fear of being targeted based on their identity can severely impact their quality of life, mental well-being, and social cohesion.
Undermining Social Harmony: Racial profiling undermines efforts to foster peace and harmony in a multi-ethnic society like Bangladesh. It can perpetuate divisions between communities, contributing to cycles of violence, mistrust, and communal tension, making reconciliation and coexistence more difficult. In summary, racial profiling is dangerous for Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh as it reinforces systemic discrimination, fosters an environment of fear and hostility, and threatens their safety, rights, and dignity.
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