Calls for Nationwide Protests in India Over Violence in Bangladesh

Nagpur: Swami Govind Dev Giri, the treasurer of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra, has called for nationwide protests in India to express outrage over recent violence against Hindus in Bangladesh. He articulated that public demonstrations are essential for conveying collective anger to the government, suggesting that such expressions may prompt political action.

Speaking to the media during the launch of a book series on Maratha King Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's military strategies, Giri stated, "People should hold protests across India to express their anger against the violence against Hindus in Bangladesh. Sometimes, anger needs to be displayed for the government to act."

Giri highlighted that the incidents in Bangladesh are deeply troubling and must be addressed urgently. He believes the Indian government is aware of the ongoing violence and may be waiting for an appropriate moment to respond. "I feel that the government here is also taking note of the chain of events and may even act. It is waiting for the right opportunity, it seems. Maybe something big is going to happen," he added.

The call for protests is rooted in concerns about the impact of violence on the Hindu community in Bangladesh. Giri emphasised the importance of unity among Hindus in India to communicate their distress to the ruling authorities. He asserted that the protests would have little effect on the Bangladeshi government, which he accused of being complicit in the violence.

When asked about the potential for Indian citizens or organisations to provide aid to victims in Bangladesh, Giri noted the need for clarity on how to channel assistance. "Help can only be sent if donors know how to route it. A lack of clarity on how to send the help prevented sending of aid to the victims even during initial months of the Bangladesh violence," he explained.

He drew parallels to previous unrest in Manipur, where confusion about relief routes hindered timely assistance. Giri mentioned that once the proper channels were established, various temple trusts began sending aid, which is still ongoing.

Regarding the funding for the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra, Giri indicated that contributions are approaching the amount spent on constructing the Ram temple, which is reported to exceed ₹2,000 crore (approximately £200 million). Although he refrained from disclosing the exact figures, he stated that donations are continually increasing.

In addition, Giri voiced criticism of actor Shah Rukh Khan over his association with Bangladeshi cricketer Mustafizur Rahman, who has been signed by Khan's Indian Premier League team. He described such actions as detrimental to national sentiments, insisting that Indian organisers should not promote athletes from Bangladesh or Pakistan.

The situation in Bangladesh remains tense, with reports of violence against the Hindu minority raising concerns among communities in India. The call for protests by Giri reflects a broader sentiment among Hindus in India regarding their counterparts facing persecution abroad.