Biden Watching the Situation in Bangladesh Very Closely: White House
President Joe Biden is closely monitoring the situation in Bangladesh, with the United States affirming that it will hold the Bangladeshi interim government accountable for ensuring the protection of religious and ethnic minorities in the country, as stated by the White House.
According to White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby, “The security situation in Bangladesh has been difficult following the ouster of the former prime minister.” He added that the US has been working closely with the interim government to enhance the capabilities of their law enforcement and security services to handle these challenges.
In a recent press conference, Kirby emphasized that the US has been clear in its engagements with Bangladeshi leaders regarding the necessity to protect religious and ethnic minorities, stating, “We want to hold them to that.” He responded to inquiries about the current state of affairs in Bangladesh and ensured that the commitment to security is inclusive of all Bangladeshis, regardless of religion or ethnicity.
In recent weeks, Indian Americans have organized peaceful protests across several major cities, including in front of the White House, as well as in Chicago, New York, San Francisco, Detroit, Houston, and Atlanta. These demonstrations aim to urge the Biden administration to take measures against alleged brutality against the minority Hindu community in Bangladesh.
Additionally, Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi has called on members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to address the escalating violence against minorities, particularly Hindus, during confirmation hearings for Senator Marco Rubio as the next Secretary of State. With the ongoing violence impacting the Hindu community, Krishnamoorthi has urged lawmakers to take immediate action on this pressing issue.
During a recent march, a large number of Indian-Americans rallied from the White House to the US Capitol, demanding justice for the Hindu community in Bangladesh. Protesters chanted slogans such as “We want Justice” and “Protect Hindus,” calling on both the Biden administration and the incoming Trump administration to ensure the new government in Bangladesh takes significant steps to protect minority groups and hold perpetrators accountable for any violence.
Utsav Chakrabarti of HinduACTion highlighted the unity of the Bangladeshi Hindu community and the Hindu diaspora from the Indian subcontinent, noting continued violence, particularly in the Chittagong and Rangpur areas of Bangladesh. Their ongoing campaign underscores the urgency for international attention and support for those facing threats to their safety and rights in the region.
The situation in Bangladesh remains tense, and the US government is expected to keep a close watch on developments, ensuring that the rights and safety of all individuals are respected and safeguarded.
