Bangladesh’s Transition: Concerns Rise Over Violence Against Hindus After Political Shift

Dhaka – Following the resignation of interim leader Muhammad Yunus and the swearing-in of Tarique Rahman as Prime Minister, Bangladesh is navigating a new political landscape. While the transition to an elected government led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) was initially hailed as a step towards democratic reform, reports of violence against the Hindu minority community are raising serious concerns about the new administration’s commitment to protecting its citizens.

Political Transition and Yunus’s Resignation

Muhammad Yunus, the 85-year-vintage Nobel Peace Prize winner, formally stepped down as chief adviser of the interim government on Monday, February 16, 2026, handing power to Tarique Rahman and the BNP after a landslide victory in last week’s elections . Yunus returned from self-imposed exile in August 2024 after the overthrow of Sheikh Hasina’s government by a student-led uprising . He congratulated Rahman on the election results, which voters endorsed alongside sweeping democratic reforms .

Reports of Violence Against Hindus

Despite promises of a safe Bangladesh for all citizens, recent incidents indicate a disturbing trend of violence targeting the Hindu community. Reports detail a gang rape of a 25-year-old disabled Hindu woman in Chandnipur, with the perpetrators – identified as Rakib, Sohail, and Russell – remaining at large . A 40-year-old Hindu lawyer, Amitabh Chandra Sujan, was hacked to death inside his home in Gaikbandha shortly after the BNP’s victory .

Escalating Attacks and a History of Violence

These incidents are not isolated. Reports indicate a significant increase in attacks against Hindus in recent months, with 116 Hindus murdered in the seven months leading up to the elections and 11 killed in the month prior .

Rahman’s Promises and Growing Concerns

Prime Minister Rahman, in his inaugural speech, pledged to ensure the safety of all citizens regardless of religion, stating that “this country belongs to all of us” . Yet, the recent violence casts doubt on the fulfillment of this promise, leading to concerns that the situation for Hindus in Bangladesh may not improve under the new government.

Looking Ahead

The new administration faces the challenge of rebuilding institutions and upholding the democratic reforms endorsed by the Bangladeshi people. A critical test of its commitment to these principles will be its response to the escalating violence against the Hindu minority and its ability to ensure justice and protection for all citizens.