A recent survey by Voice of America (VOA) Bangla reveals that the majority of people in Bangladesh believe the interim government is providing greater security to religious and ethnic minorities compared to the previous Awami League government. However, perceptions of safety differ somewhat between Muslim and non-Muslim respondents.
Conducted in late October, the survey found that 64.1% of respondents think minorities are better protected under the interim government, while 15.3% believe the situation has worsened, and 17.9% see no change. The survey involved 1,000 respondents who compared the interim government’s performance with that of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s administration.
The respondents, balanced in terms of gender and age, included 92.7% Muslims, with over half under the age of 34. Approximately a quarter resided in urban areas.
Improvements After Initial Turmoil
Following the fall of the Awami League government on August 5, minorities, especially Hindus, faced widespread violence, including attacks on homes, businesses, and places of worship. Human rights activist Nur Khan noted that political affiliations and minority status were key reasons for the violence.
However, after the interim government, led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus, took office, the situation improved. The administration, along with religious institutions and communities, worked to protect minority worship sites and stabilize the environment.
Nur Khan, also a member of the interim government’s Commission on Enforced Disappearances, stated that significant steps from the government and civil society have contributed to a better situation within a month.
Differing Views on Safety
The survey highlighted a disparity in perceptions:
- 66.1% of Muslim respondents felt the interim government was providing better protection to minorities.
- However, only 39.5% of non-Muslim respondents shared this view, with 33.9% believing the security situation had worsened under the new administration.
For example, Jayati Sarkar, a Dhaka resident, expressed uncertainty about her family’s safety, despite a sense of relief from diminished political exploitation of Hindus under the Awami League.
International Concerns
The rise in violence against minorities after the government change sparked international concerns. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken raised the issue in discussions with Bangladesh’s leadership.
While the interim government has described the attacks as isolated incidents and accused media of exaggeration, human rights organizations like Human Rights Watch emphasized the need for stronger protections for minorities.
Lingering Doubts
Despite recent improvements, human rights activists note lingering doubts about long-term security for minorities. Nur Khan observed a gradual reduction in fear within the minority community but stressed that it is too early to claim complete trust in the government’s ability to ensure safety.
The situation over the next 6–9 months, including the government’s actions and policies, will determine whether this fragile sense of security solidifies.
