Massive protests have erupted in Bangladesh’s capital Dhaka over the alleged desecration of a picture of Lord Ram by extremist groups. The incident is linked to opposition against the construction of a tall statue of the deity in Rangpur. Following the controversy, construction work was halted, and thousands of Hindus held a torchlight procession in Dhaka, chanting “Jai Shri Ram” and demanding action against those responsible.

What Triggered Fresh Agitation?

Several Hindu groups and students gathered at Shahbagh and marched to the National Press Club on Friday. The protest was called by Hindu Mahajot, which also organised a human chain. In Rangpur, police stopped a demonstration, leading to a minor scuffle. The protesters claimed that an Islamist mob desecrated an image of Lord Ram by placing a shoe on it during a demonstration in Gaibandha earlier this month.

They have also issued a 72-hour ultimatum for the arrest of those involved and warned of further protests if no action is taken. They also announced plans to submit a memorandum to the Ministry of Religious Affairs and hold talks with the Prime Minister, along with future rallies.

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Temple project halted amid rising tensions

The tensions began after work on an 81-foot-tall statue of Lord Ram in Palashbari, Gaibandha district, was stopped. The Sri Sri Radha Govinda Temple committee, which is behind the project, said the authorities received threats from extremist groups. The situation has raised concerns about minority safety in Bangladesh.

Warning of wider agitation

The Hindu Mahajot said that if construction of the statue is not resumed, they may launch wider religious mobilisation across the country. The protests are expected to continue, with the National Committee for Puja Celebrations announcing nationwide demonstrations.

Why was the construction halted?

The statue was part of a larger temple complex in Palashbari, with nearly 80 per cent of the work already completed. The project cost is estimated at around 22 crore Bangladeshi taka (about Rs 15.6 crore) and also includes statues of Lord Krishna and Lord Shiva. Temple committee president Haridas Chandra Das said work was stopped due to threats. "We are scared, and in fear and out of fear, we have kept the work suspended," Das told the media.

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Temple adviser Shyamlal Kumar Mahanta said the project was paused to avoid further tension. "We are stopping this work to maintain law and order and communal harmony. We do not want to become the cause of any dispute, nor do we wish to hurt anyone's religious sentiments," the committee stated.

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