AFERMB Condemns Alleged Disrespect to Lord Ram’s Image in Bangladesh, Calls for Protection of Minority Rights and Religious Sites

Melbourne, June 20: The Australian Federation for Ethnic and Religious Minorities in Bangladesh (AFERMB) has expressed deep concern and strong condemnation over recent incidents involving alleged disrespect to the image of Lord Ram in Bangladesh and reported threats to demolish a under-construction Ram statue in Palashbari, Gaibandha.

In a statement issued from Australia on Friday (June 19), the organisation claimed that during a recent rally in Dhaka, the image of Lord Ram was allegedly disrespected alongside the chanting of provocative slogans. It further stated that threats were issued to remove an under-construction Ram statue in Palashbari, Gaibandha.

According to AFERMB, these incidents represent a serious affront to the religious freedom, dignity, and security of the Hindu community in Bangladesh. The organisation stressed that attacks or disrespect towards religious symbols and places of worship do not only affect one community but also weaken social harmony and shared humanitarian values.

In its press release, AFERMB outlined a series of demands to the Government of Bangladesh and relevant authorities, including:

• Immediate resumption and completion of the construction of the Ram statue without obstruction
• Ensuring security for Hindu temples, religious sites, and minority communities across the country
• Conducting an impartial investigation into the alleged incidents of disrespect and threats
• Bringing those responsible to justice through due legal process and ensuring exemplary punishment
• Safeguarding constitutional rights of all citizens regardless of religion, belief, or identity

The organisation also expressed concern over what it described as repeated allegations of attacks, intimidation, harassment, and human rights violations targeting minority places of worship in Bangladesh, calling for effective measures to prevent such incidents.

In the statement signed by AFERMB Director Sharmistha Saha, the organisation reaffirmed its commitment to religious freedom, human dignity, and the protection of minority rights. It also urged immediate steps to ensure safety, equal rights, and equal protection under the law for all communities.

However, no official response from the relevant government authorities regarding the allegations was available at the time of publication.