Sanatan Jagaran Mancha Demands Action at Ctg Rally

The event drew members of the Hindu community from Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, and the hill districts, who urged the interim government to prioritize their demands. Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, spokesperson for the organization, chaired the rally.

Speakers expressed deep concerns about the ongoing persecution of the Hindu community over the past 53 years, highlighting the lack of justice for violence and attacks against them. They criticized the government's inaction in prosecuting those responsible for recent assaults on Hindu properties and places of worship.

While welcoming the government's pledges for compensation and reforms to support affected community members, the speakers called for prompt action. “If our 8-point demands are fulfilled, the Sanatan community will remain forever grateful,” said representatives at the rally.

Moderated by Gouranga Das Brahmachari, the rally featured speeches from journalists, lawyers, and educators, emphasizing a united call for change.

The 8-point demands of the Sanatan Jagaran Mancha include:

   1. Establishment of a Special Tribunal – For expedited trials in cases of minority persecution, including compensation and rehabilitation for victims.
   2. Enactment of a Minority Protection Law – To safeguard the rights and security of minority communities.
   3. Creation of a Ministry for Minority Affairs – To address the specific needs and challenges faced by minority groups.
   4. Upgrade of the Hindu Welfare Trust to a Hindu Foundation – Along with similar upgrades for the Buddhist and Christian Welfare Trusts.
   5. Laws to Recover and Protect Debottar (Temple) Properties – Ensuring proper enforcement of the Vested Property Return Act.
   6. Provision of Prayer Rooms in Educational Institutions – To accommodate minority religious practices in schools, colleges, and hostels.
   7. Modernization of Sanskrit and Pali Education Boards – To improve educational resources for these communities.
   8. Five-Day Public Holiday for Durga Puja – To recognize this significant religious festival for the Hindu community.

The rally emphasized the urgent need for government action to address these demands and protect the rights of minorities in Bangladesh.