Massive Hindu Protest in Dhaka Draws Crowds, Echoes With ‘Jai Shri Ram’ Slogans

Thousands of Hindus Protest in Dhaka Over Alleged Desecration of Lord Ram Image, Demand Action

Thousands of members of Bangladesh’s Hindu community took to the streets of Dhaka on Friday, demanding action over the alleged desecration of an image of Lord Ram and calling for the resumption of work on a controversial temple project in the country’s north.

The demonstrations come days after construction of an 81-foot statue of Lord Ram in Palashbari, located in Gaibandha district, was suspended amid security concerns and opposition from Islamist groups.

Protesters carrying torches and chanting religious slogans marched through parts of the capital, accusing authorities of failing to act against those allegedly involved in the desecration incident. Several Hindu organisations participated in the demonstrations, which were held at key locations including Shahbagh and the National Press Club.

What Triggered the Protests?

The protests were sparked by allegations that an image of Lord Ram was desecrated during a demonstration against the statue project earlier this month. Hindu groups claim that despite a police complaint being filed, no arrests have been made so far.

Organisations including the Hindu Mahajot demanded swift action against those responsible and issued a 72-hour deadline to authorities. Protest leaders warned that if their demands were not met, further demonstrations would be organised across the country.

A memorandum is also expected to be submitted to the Ministry of Religious Affairs, while the National Committee for Puja Celebrations has announced additional protest programmes.

In Rangpur, tensions briefly escalated when police intervened to prevent a demonstration, leading to a minor confrontation between protesters and security personnel.

Why Was the Ram Statue Project Halted?

The proposed Lord Ram statue is part of a larger religious complex being developed by the Sri Sri Radha Govinda Temple committee. According to the organisers, nearly 80 percent of the construction work has already been completed.

The project includes plans for an 81-foot statue of Lord Ram, a 50-foot statue of Lord Krishna and a 30-foot statue of Lord Shiva. The total estimated cost is around 22 crore Bangladeshi taka.

Temple committee officials say construction was suspended after threats were allegedly made against those involved in the project. Reports indicate that some religious leaders and groups opposed the statue and called for the work to be stopped.

Haridas Chandra Das, president of the temple committee, said the decision was taken due to security concerns and fear among workers and organisers. In a separate statement, committee adviser Shyamlal Kumar Mahanta said the work was paused to maintain peace and avoid communal tensions.

“We do not want the project to become a source of conflict or disturb social harmony,” the committee said.

Minority Rights Back in Focus

The developments have once again drawn attention to concerns surrounding the safety and rights of religious minorities in Bangladesh.

Hindus constitute the country’s largest religious minority, accounting for roughly 8 percent of the population. Community leaders have frequently raised concerns about incidents of communal violence and attacks on religious sites.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has repeatedly stated that all citizens have the right to practise their faith freely and has emphasised the importance of religious harmony. However, rights groups and community organisations continue to call for stronger measures to address incidents targeting minorities.

With protest groups planning additional demonstrations in the coming days, the controversy surrounding the Ram statue project is likely to remain a significant issue in Bangladesh’s political and social discourse.