- MP Chandra Arya expresses concern over attacks on Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians in Bangladesh.
- Religious minorities in Bangladesh have declined from 23.1% to 9.6% since 1971.
- A rally will be held on Parliament Hill to bring attention to the violence and security concerns.
Indo-Canadian MP Chandra Arya addressed the Canadian Parliament with deep concerns about the violence faced by religious minorities in Bangladesh.
Arya’s comments come as many Canadian Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians express worries about the safety of their families and religious sites in Bangladesh.
Canada’s Chandra Arya Urges Action on Violence Against Bangladesh’s Religious Minorities
In a passionate speech, Liberal Party MP Chandra Arya expressed his concern over the plight of religious minorities in Bangladesh. He noted that, historically, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians have faced violent persecution during periods of political or social unrest in the country. Arya warned that the current trend of violence is causing anxiety among the Canadian diaspora with connections to Bangladesh.
He stressed the demographic shift over the past decades, with religious minorities now comprising only 9.6% of Bangladesh’s population, compared to 23.1% at the time of independence. Arya specifically called out the alarming decline of the Hindu population, which has fallen from 20% to 8.5%, attributing this drop to continuous marginalization and violent attacks.
Arya also highlighted the concerns of Canadian Hindus who have family members in Bangladesh, fearing for their relatives’ safety and the protection of their religious properties, including temples. He urged the Canadian government to use its diplomatic channels to press for action to ensure the safety of these communities.
In an effort to draw broader attention to the issue, Arya announced a rally on Parliament Hill, scheduled for the following week. Canadian Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians will come together to demand increased attention to the situation in Bangladesh and call for more robust efforts to protect vulnerable communities.
MP Chandra Arya’s call for action highlights the ongoing struggles faced by religious minorities in Bangladesh and the need for international attention to safeguard their rights and security. The rally on Parliament Hill is set to amplify these concerns and encourage policymakers to take meaningful steps.
“I am deeply concerned by violence targeting religious minorities, including Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians in Bangladesh.” – MP Chandra Arya
