Bangladesh’s interim government defended its record on minority protection amid rising international scrutiny. Interim head of state Muhammad Yunus said most reported incidents were criminal, not communal. In a statement on X, Yunus cited a yearlong police review covering January to December 2025. The report recorded 645 incidents involving minority communities across the country.
Officials classified 71 cases as communal in nature. These mainly involved vandalism of religious sites and idol desecration. Authorities assessed the remaining 574 cases as non-communal. The government said many incidents stemmed from land disputes, political rivalries, theft, and personal conflicts. It argued that accurate classification prevents misinformation and improves policing responses.
Yunus said the report reflects transparency and accountability. He added that the government remains committed to protecting all religious communities. The statement stressed equal rights for Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, and other groups. It called safety and justice a constitutional and moral duty.
Rights group Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council raised concerns over rising violence. It linked the trend to the upcoming February 12 elections. India also criticised Dhaka’s handling of minority issues. New Delhi warned that downplaying attacks could embolden extremist groups.
