Tensions in Chittagong, Bangladesh, have escalated following a violent clash between the minority Hindu community and security forces, sparked by a controversial social media post. The incident, which unfolded in the Hazari Gali area on November 5, has drawn widespread attention and raised concerns about the safety of religious minorities in the country.
The conflict began when Osman Ali, a member of the radical Islamic group Jamat-e-Islami, posted derogatory comments about Hinduism and the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) on social media. In response, local Hindu residents gathered outside Ali’s shop to protest the offensive remarks, leading to a confrontation between the two communities. As the situation spiraled out of control, security forces, including the Bangladesh Army, were deployed to restore order.
Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen shared footage of the crackdown on social media, showing violent clashes between civilians and security personnel. The video, shared on X (formerly Twitter), depicted scenes of chaos, with security officers using batons to chase and strike protesters. In an attempt to disperse the crowds, blank rounds were reportedly fired into the air. Some security personnel were also seen dismantling CCTV cameras in the area.
Local news reported that the unrest led to injuries among both civilians and security forces. Nine police officers were injured, including one who suffered acid burns from alleged attacks by protesters. Authorities have since filed a case against 582 individuals and arrested 49 people in connection with the violence.
Hindu community leaders have accused the security forces of unfairly targeting their members during the crackdown. They claim that, despite provocations from both sides, the authorities conducted indiscriminate operations, including raids and searches in the predominantly Hindu neighborhood of Hazari Gali, a business district historically known for its Hindu population.
Many residents in the area remain trapped in their homes due to ongoing military operations and heavy surveillance. Door-to-door searches have been reported, further heightening fears of targeted violence against the Hindu community.
This incident adds to growing concerns over the safety of minorities in Bangladesh, particularly Hindus, who make up approximately 8 percent of the population. The violence follows a pattern of rising tensions and attacks against the Hindu community in the wake of political instability, including the recent ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Hindus have traditionally supported Hasina’s Awami League party, and the recent unrest is seen by many as a reflection of the broader political and sectarian divides in the country.
In response to the violence, the interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has condemned the attacks and vowed to take action to protect minority communities. Authorities have pledged to work closely with local leaders to ensure the safety and security of all citizens, while efforts to de-escalate the situation continue.
As the investigation into the clashes continues, Hazari Gali remains under tight security, and both local and international observers are closely monitoring the situation. The conflict underscores ongoing challenges related to religious tensions and the treatment of minorities in Bangladesh.
