Since August 4 of last year, a significant majority of incidents against minority communities in Bangladesh have been classified as 'political in nature' rather than 'communal,' according to a recent police report released by the Bangladesh government on Saturday. In response to this, the authorities have introduced a dedicated WhatsApp number to directly receive complaints of communal violence and ensure better communication with minority communities.

The Bangladesh Hindu Buddha Christian Unity Council reported that a total of 1,769 communal attacks and acts of vandalism had occurred against minorities. The Chief Adviser’s Press Wing issued a statement citing this report, indicating the scope and severity of these incidents.

Out of these 1,769 allegations, police have registered 62 cases based on the merits of the complaints. So far, at least 35 individuals have been arrested following investigations into these claims. The police emphasized that in most instances, the attacks were found to be politically motivated rather than driven by communal hatred.

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Bangladesh Police Reviews 2,010 Minority Incidents

The police investigation identified 1,234 incidents as political in nature, with 20 classified as communal. Additionally, 161 claims were found to be false. The Bangladesh Hindu Buddha Christian Unity Council reported a total of 2,010 incidents involving attacks, vandalism, and looting targeting the minority community’s lives, properties, and places of worship.

The Bangladesh police also reviewed allegations from the council, visiting all locations mentioned and ensuring security for affected individuals. Most reported incidents, including 1,452 on August 5, 2024, were linked to the ousting of Sheikh Hasina, with additional incidents on August 4 and 6.

Since August 4, the police have registered 115 cases of communal violence, with 100 arrests made. Additionally, 134 allegations were received from August 5 to January 8, leading to the filing of 53 cases and 65 arrests.

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