In light of recent political instability and communal violence in Bangladesh, minority communities, including Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, and others, are facing severe persecution and atrocities. The Hindu community of New Zealand, along with members of various other communities, expresses deep concern and is calling for urgent international intervention to address these human rights violations.

“This is not just a crisis for the Hindu community but a profound humanitarian tragedy impacting all minority communities in Bangladesh. Innocent people are being targeted, their places of worship desecrated, and their basic rights brutally violated. The global community cannot afford to remain silent in the face of such widespread suffering,” says Sunil Das, President of the Hindu Foundation New Zealand.

The Hindu Foundation New Zealand, in partnership with Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, Hindu Council of New Zealand, BharatiyaMandir, and other community organizations, demands immediate and decisive action from the Bangladesh government to end this violence and bring those responsible to justice. The Foundation also calls on the international community to impose targeted sanctions on individuals and groups responsible for these atrocities.

Given New Zealand’s strong commitment to human rights, the Foundation urges the New Zealand government to provide refuge to those fleeing this persecution. Specifically, the Hindu Foundation New Zealand calls on the New Zealand government to expedite refugee processing for all minority communities in Bangladesh seeking asylum.

Sunil Das made a direct appeal to New Zealand’s leaders, saying, “We urge the Rt Hon Christopher Luxon, Prime Minister of New Zealand, Rt Hon Winston Peters, Foreign Minister, Hon David Seymour, Deputy Prime Minister, Hon Chris Hipkins, Leader of the Opposition, all Cabinet Ministers, and all Members of Parliament across political parties to condemn this abhorrent violence against Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, and other minorities in Bangladesh. New Zealand has a moral duty to stand up for the oppressed and to use its influence to demand an end to these atrocities.”

On Sunday, August 18th, 2024, members of the wider communities in New Zealand will gather in Auckland for a peaceful solidarity stand to support the victims in Bangladesh. This event will also serve as a collective appeal to the New Zealand government to take concrete steps, including providing humanitarian aid, offering resettlement opportunities, and advocating for international intervention.

“We stand united in our call for justice and protection for all minority communities in Bangladesh,” Mr Das said. “This is a crucial moment for New Zealand and the global community to act decisively to prevent further suffering and to uphold the principles of human rights and dignity for all.”

About the Hindu Foundation New Zealand:

The Hindu Foundation New Zealand is a leading organization dedicated to the promotion and protection of Hindu culture and values in New Zealand. The Foundation works in collaboration with various community organizations to support humanitarian causes and advocate for justice and equality.

For more information:

Sunil Das, President, Hindu Foundation New Zealand