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Created: 23 February 2025

British Parliament Protests Against the Killing of Religious Minorities in Bangladesh and Demanding the Release of Chimmoy Prabhu

The Secular Bangladesh Movement UK held a protest meeting and human chain in front of the UK Parliament. The event, held on Wednesday (February 19), was attended by Bangladeshi expatriates who believe in the spirit of Bangladesh's Liberation War and are vocal in favor of human rights and democracy.

The main objective of the protest meeting and human chain was to protest against the ongoing persecution, attacks on homes, planned massacres, property grabbing, rape and human rights violations against religious and ethnic minorities in Bangladesh. In particular, the event was organized to protest against the prolonged detention of Hindu religious monk Chinmoy Das in prison without trial on false charges and the suppression of the democratic movement of the Hindu community.

The rally called on the appropriate authorities of the UK Parliament to apply pressure on the Bangladesh government as part of the Commonwealth's responsibility to protect the human rights of all minority communities.

The rally was led by Pushpita Gupta, chairman of Secular Bangladesh UK. Leaders of cultural and social organizations of the British-Bangladeshi community were present at the program.

The main speakers at the rally were community activists Syed Enam Islam, Shah Newaz, Swarup Sham Chowdhury, Gyan Gupta, Atish Saha, Ram Saha, Nishit Sarkar, Mina Chakraborty, Suranjit Gupta, Abdul Ahad Chowdhury, Sujit Chowdhury and Jamal Khan.

Community activist Sujit Chowdhury spoke on behalf of the Bangladesh Hindu Association UK expressing solidarity. Labour Party leader Swarup Chowdhury Shibu also spoke.

The speakers said, "Chinmoy Das must be released immediately. The planned attacks, killings, arson, rape, property grabbing, forced removal from jobs and political oppression against religious and ethnic minorities must be stopped immediately." The Bangladesh government must take effective steps to protect the rights of minorities and the international community must play a more active role in the human rights situation in Bangladesh.’

The program called for raising international awareness in favor of human rights and religious tolerance in Bangladesh. The speakers called on all democratic forces in Bangladesh to unite and stand against communal oppression and repression.

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Created: 22 February 2025

India’s Enforcement Directorate (ED) has fined the British state broadcaster BBC for violating foreign exchange laws, according to a report by the Hindustan Times, which cited an unnamed government official. The financial penalty amounts to £314,510 ($397,980) for violations of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) of 1999.

Additionally, three directors of BBC India—Giles Anthony Hunt, Indu Shekhar Sinha, and Paul Michael Gibbons—were each fined £104,836.

Background of the Investigation

The ED launched an investigation into the BBC’s financial activities in April 2023. Subsequently, authorities conducted raids at the broadcaster’s offices in Delhi and Mumbai on suspicion of financial irregularities. Russian media outlet RT reported on the raids, linking them to concerns over alleged violations of foreign exchange regulations.

BBC's Response

In response to the fine, the BBC issued a statement saying, “We will carefully review any order we receive and consider the next steps accordingly.”

Context: The BBC Documentary and Government Response

The investigation into the BBC in India came shortly after the broadcaster released a controversial documentary in February 2023. The documentary examined Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s role in the 2002 Gujarat riots when he was the state’s Chief Minister. The film sparked criticism from the Indian government, which dismissed it as “propaganda” and subsequently banned it in the country, accusing the BBC of biased reporting.

The 2002 Gujarat riots were triggered by a train fire that killed 59 Hindu pilgrims. The violence that followed resulted in the deaths of more than 1,000 people, predominantly Muslims, and the displacement of thousands. Modi’s administration at the time faced accusations of failing to prevent the violence and even of complicity in the unrest.

Implications

The fine imposed on the BBC marks another point of contention between the Indian government and international media organizations. It raises concerns about press freedom in the country, especially in light of increased scrutiny of foreign media operations in India. Observers continue to watch how the BBC will respond to the penalty and whether it will challenge the fine through legal channels.

This development highlights the ongoing tensions between India and foreign news organizations, particularly in the context of critical reporting on government affairs.

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Created: 19 February 2025

Every year on February 21, the world observes International Mother Language Day, a day dedicated to the celebration of linguistic diversity and the promotion of multilingualism. For Bangladeshis, this day carries a profound significance, rooted in the sacrifices made by the language martyrs of 1952 in Dhaka, who gave their lives for the recognition of Bangla as their mother tongue. The spirit of Ekushey transcends borders, reminding us of the fundamental right to speak, learn, and express ourselves in our native languages.
The Historic Struggle for Language Rights
The seeds of International Mother Language Day were sown in the streets of Dhaka when students of the University of Dhaka and other activists protested against the imposition of Urdu as the sole state language of Pakistan. On February 21, 1952, police opened fire on peaceful demonstrators, killing several students, including Salam, Rafiq, Barkat, and Jabbar. Their sacrifice led to the eventual recognition of Bangla as one of the state languages of Pakistan and later inspired the birth of independent Bangladesh in 1971.
In 1999, UNESCO recognized February 21 as International Mother Language Day, acknowledging the importance of linguistic and cultural diversity worldwide. Since then, this day has been observed globally to promote language preservation and multilingual education.
The Importance of Linguistic Diversity in a Globalized World
Language is not just a medium of communication; it is an essential part of cultural identity. Today, many indigenous and lesser-known languages are facing extinction due to globalization, urbanization, and socio-political pressures. When a language dies, a rich cultural heritage and a unique way of perceiving the world are lost forever.
In Canada, a nation known for its multiculturalism and linguistic diversity, International Mother Language Day holds special relevance. With over 200 languages spoken across the country, Canada’s commitment to bilingualism (English and French) and the protection of Indigenous languages is a testament to the importance of linguistic inclusion. However, challenges remain, particularly in preserving Indigenous languages that have been marginalized for centuries. Government initiatives and community-driven efforts continue to play a crucial role in revitalizing these languages.
Celebrating Language and Culture
International Mother Language Day is an opportunity to promote multilingual education, celebrate linguistic diversity, and encourage policies that support language preservation. Educational institutions, cultural organizations, and community groups worldwide mark this day with seminars, poetry recitations, art exhibitions, and discussions on language rights.
As a Bangladeshi Canadian, I find deep inspiration in the legacy of the language movement and the ongoing struggle for linguistic rights around the world. It is our collective responsibility to honor the sacrifices of the past by ensuring that all languages, especially those at risk of disappearing, are given the recognition and respect they deserve.
A Call to Action
On this International Mother Language Day, let us pledge to uphold linguistic diversity, promote inclusive education, and support policies that protect endangered languages. The story of Ekushey teaches us that language is more than words; it is the soul of a people, the voice of history, and the bridge to a more inclusive and harmonious world.
Amar Ekushey, Amar Gorb—My Ekushey, My Pride.

By Delwar Jahid, Canada