Bangladesh Hindu Bouddha Christian Oikya Parishad staged a protest rally demanding the immediate release of Haridas Chandra Tarani Das, caretaker of the Ram statue construction in Gaibandha’s Palashbari, who was recently arrested.
Leaders of the Parishad (Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council) urged the government to take effective measures to stop obstruction in the construction of religious institutions, to end attacks and persecution of minorities, and to prevent interference in religious freedom.
The rally was held in front of the Jatiya Press Club in Dhaka on Saturday, followed by a procession that paraded Paltan intersection before ending back at the press club.
Speakers demanded legal action against those involved in the incident and also assurance of security for religious minorities across the country.
Manindra Kumar Nath, general secretary of the Parishad, said, “The temple construction in Palashbari has been ongoing for a long time. Local representatives and leaders of various political parties have visited the site and were aware of the construction. Yet suddenly, the temple caretaker Haridas Chandra Tarani Das has been arrested.”
He alleged that an extremist group vandalised the temple and desecrated the image of Lord Ram. “Instead of punishing those responsible, the caretaker has been arrested. If there was any irregularity, what was the administration doing all this time? What message does this arrest send?” he asked.
Nath further said the government’s response to attacks and persecution of minorities has been inadequate. “Since August 2024, countless incidents of violence against minorities have occurred, including killings and attacks on temples. We demand proper justice and punishment for the perpetrators.”
He alleged that while many minority youths have been arrested on charges of religious defamation, no similar action is taken against individuals making hate speeches about other religions. He also urged the government to end such discriminatory practices.
He warned of larger protest programmes if effective government action is not taken. He described the case against Tarani Das as “false”, demanding its withdrawal and his immediate release. He also called for the release of imprisoned Chinmoy Krishna Brahmachari.
Nirmal Rozario, a Vice President of the Unity Council, said the government must play a stronger role in protecting the religious rights, social security, and constitutional rights of minorities.
“Construction and preservation of temples, mosques, churches, and pagodas is a constitutional right of every citizen. The government must take a firm stance to ensure no group can obstruct the building of religious institutions,” Rozario said.
Referring to the Gaibandha incident, he added, “If religious institution construction is obstructed despite the presence of administration and law enforcement, questions arise about the effectiveness of the state. The government must guarantee religious freedom and security for all citizens.”
