Chants of ‘Jai Shri Ram’ echoes in Dhaka as Hindus hold massive protest in Bangladesh due to…

Thousands of Hindus took to the streets of Dhaka on Friday, protesting the alleged desecration of an image of Lord Ram and the suspension of a major temple project in northern Bangladesh. The demonstrations were organised by Hindu groups and students, who marched through key parts of the capital while chanting “Jai Shri Ram” and demanding action against those accused of insulting the Hindu deity. The protests come at a time of growing concern over minority rights and communal tensions in Muslim-majority Bangladesh, where Hindus make up around 8 percent of the population.

Hindus Demand Action Over Alleged Desecration

The latest unrest was triggered by allegations that an image of Lord Ram was desecrated during a demonstration by Islamist groups in Gaibandha earlier this month. Protesters claimed that a shoe was placed on the image, which they described as an insult to their faith.

Several Hindu organisations gathered at Dhaka’s Shahbagh intersection before marching toward the National Press Club. Human chains and demonstrations were also organised at other locations in the capital. Protest leaders said a police case had been filed, but no arrests had been made so far.

Accusing the government of failing to act, protesters issued a 72-hour ultimatum demanding the arrest of those responsible. They warned that larger demonstrations would follow if their demands were not met. Hindu groups also announced plans to submit a memorandum to the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

Why The Ram Statue Project Was Halted

The controversy is also linked to the construction of an 81-foot-tall Lord Ram statue in Palashbari, located in Bangladesh’s Gaibandha district. The statue, part of a larger temple complex, was reportedly around 80 percent complete before work was suspended.

The project, estimated to cost around 22 crore Bangladeshi taka, also includes plans for large statues of Lord Krishna and Lord Shiva. According to temple committee officials, construction was halted after threats were received from Islamist groups. One radical preacher allegedly threatened to demolish the structure with a bulldozer.

Temple representatives said the decision to stop work was taken to maintain social harmony and avoid further conflict.

Minority Rights Back In Focus

The developments have once again drawn attention to the condition of religious minorities in Bangladesh. Hindu organisations argue that attacks on temples, religious symbols and community members have increased in recent years.

While Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has repeatedly stated that every citizen has the right to practice their religion freely, rights groups have pointed to reports of communal violence across the country. According to available figures, more than 130 incidents of communal unrest were recorded during the first three months of the year.

With nationwide protests planned for the coming days, the issue is expected to remain a major topic of discussion across Bangladesh.