In response to escalating violence against Hindus in Bangladesh, Shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel is urging the UK government to intervene and ensure the safety and protection of the Hindu community. Patel has voiced her concerns in a letter to Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, calling on the Labour Party government to address the issue in the House of Commons.

Patel described the situation in Bangladesh as "very concerning," pointing to reports of at least six Hindus being murdered within an 18-day period. She emphasized that such "persecution and violence is unacceptable". Patel is urging the UK government to leverage its influence and convening powers to foster stability in Bangladesh, creating a secure environment where religious freedoms are protected and Hindus are safe.

This call for intervention follows rising concerns and reports of violence against Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. Conservative MP Bob Blackman previously raised the issue in the House of Commons, citing a report by Insight UK that documented increased attacks on Hindus leading up to Diwali. Blackman also highlighted incidents of houses being burned and businesses ransacked.

The UK government has previously condemned violence and hate directed towards religious minorities in Bangladesh, reaffirming its commitment to supporting a peaceful democratic transition and protecting religious freedom. However, some MPs have called for more concrete action to safeguard these communities.

Recent reports indicate a worrying trend of targeted violence against Hindus in Bangladesh. The Human Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities (HRCBM) has documented over a hundred deaths within a seven-month period. Other incidents include the lynching of Dipu Chandra Das, a Hindu garment worker accused of blasphemy, and a Hindu widow allegedly gang-raped and tortured. These incidents have sparked outrage and protests both in Bangladesh and internationally.

The situation is further complicated by the current political climate in Bangladesh. Following the removal of Sheikh Hasina's government in 2024, there has been increased instability and violence, disproportionately affecting minority communities. Some analysts suggest the violence is politically motivated, aimed at intimidating minority voters and influencing election outcomes.

Priti Patel and other UK MPs are urging the government to actively engage with Bangladeshi authorities and regional partners to ensure the safety and security of religious minorities. They are calling for specific measures to protect Hindus and prevent further violence and persecution. The UK government has stated they are actively monitoring the situation and are committed to the protection of freedom of religion.