Bangladeshi professor raises concern over attacks on minorities

Agartala (Tripura) [India], October 15 (ANI): Subrata Roy, a professor from Sylhet, Bangladesh, expressed his concerns regarding the recent attacks on minorities in Bangladesh during his visit to Agartala, the capital city of Tripura.

Speaking to ANI, Professor Roy commended the Durga Puja celebrations in Agartala, noting the unique theme that honoured Bangladesh's founding father, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

"When I arrived in Agartala, I was delighted to see the beautiful arrangements for Durga Puja, with the theme honouring our national leader, Bangabandhu, who has been the father of our country since independence," said Roy.

However, he voiced his deep concern over the escalating violence in Bangladesh. "Since August 5, 2024, there have been brutal attacks on minorities by fundamentalist groups, who seem intent on erasing our history," he reported.

Roy expressed his dismay at the disrespect shown toward Bangabandhu in Bangladesh, including instances of vandalism and desecration. "It brings me great joy to witness the respect given to my Bangabandhu during the celebrations here in Agartala, where the father of the nation is being shamelessly disrespected in many ways in Bangladesh, like dismantling his statue and even urinating on it," he lamented.

Highlighting the cultural ties between India and Bangladesh, Roy stated, "The culture of Bangladesh is quite similar to that of India, but there is currently a fundamentalist organization attempting to destroy this culture and import Pakistan's cultural practices instead. These extremists aim to undermine our minority cultures and foster an anti-India sentiment in Bangladesh."

Reflecting on the situation, he noted that Durga Puja had been celebrated peacefully in Bangladesh for the past 15 years. However, with the rise of a fundamentalist government since August 5, the country has experienced heightened tension. He emphasized the importance of India's support, saying, "India has always been our neighboring friend and will continue to be."
Professor Roy further made a heartfelt plea to India, particularly to West Bengal and the northeastern states, to assist in protecting the culture and supporting the minority communities in Bangladesh. "I urge West Bengal and the seven sister states to help us protect our culture and support us, the minorities, in our time of need," he stated. (ANI)