**New Hampshire House Resolution Calls for U.S. Investigation into Alleged Abuses Against Minorities in Bangladesh**
Concord, NH – The New Hampshire House of Representatives has introduced House Resolution 11 (HR 11), urging the U.S. government to investigate allegations of human rights abuses against religious minorities in Bangladesh. This resolution, supported by a bipartisan group of state lawmakers, raises concerns about reported attacks on Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, and other minority communities during the current interim government.
Sponsored by Representative Khan (Rockingham 30) and co-sponsored by several other state lawmakers, the resolution highlights alleged incidents of violence, including the destruction of religious shrines and persecution of minority communities. It specifically accuses Bangladesh's current leadership, under Muhammad Yunus, of attempting to erase the legacy of the nation's founding leader, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, by canceling national holidays and renaming institutions dedicated to him.
**Concerns Over Religious Persecution**
HR 11 states that following the January 7, 2024 elections, Bangladesh’s government was overthrown by what it describes as a "so-called student uprising" supported by Islamic fundamentalist groups. According to the resolution, this political upheaval has led to increased attacks on religious sites and cultural figures, resulting in deaths and injuries among religious minorities.
The resolution cites specific incidents, including the burning of at least 50 shrines, such as the Shah Paran Shrine, the Dewanbagh Shrine in Narayanganj, and the Garibullah Shah Shrine in Chittagong. These attacks have allegedly created an atmosphere of fear and instability for minority communities throughout the country.
**Extrajudicial Killings and Political Repression**
HR 11 further asserts that the interim government has engaged in extrajudicial killings of political dissidents and members of the previous administration, including those affiliated with the Bangladesh Awami League. The resolution also references reports of violence against police officers loyal to the former government, painting a grim picture of Bangladesh’s current political climate.
**Call for U.S. Action**
The resolution formally urges the U.S. government to investigate these allegations and take appropriate diplomatic measures. Copies of HR 11 will be forwarded to the New Hampshire Congressional delegation, the U.S. Secretary of State, the President of the United States, and the White House Press Office to emphasize the urgency of the matter.
The introduction of HR 11 reflects growing international concerns about the political and human rights situation in Bangladesh. Advocacy groups and human rights organizations are closely monitoring the situation and calling for accountability and protection for vulnerable communities.
As the resolution moves through the New Hampshire legislature, its impact on U.S.-Bangladesh relations remains uncertain. However, its passage could amplify global calls for justice and increase scrutiny of Bangladesh’s interim government.
**Next Steps**
It is unclear how the federal government will respond to New Hampshire’s call for action, but the resolution adds to the mounting pressure for a formal U.S. investigation. If the allegations outlined in HR 11 are substantiated, there could be significant diplomatic consequences, including potential sanctions or shifts in U.S. foreign policy toward Bangladesh.
For now, human rights advocates and affected communities are watching closely, hoping for meaningful intervention to address the reported injustices.