In a powerful address to the House of Commons, Conservative MP Bob Blackman has spotlighted the escalating violence against minorities in Bangladesh, demanding urgent action from the British government. With streets running red from attacks on Hindus and widespread arson targeting homes and temples, the situation under Yunus’s interim administration has deteriorated sharply.
Blackman, a vocal advocate for human rights, described horrific scenes where religious minorities face relentless persecution. ‘Hindus are being murdered on the streets, their homes and temples set ablaze, and similar atrocities are befalling other communities,’ he stated during an adjournment debate before the holiday recess. He praised the House Leader for promptly writing to the Foreign Secretary about the perilous conditions.
The MP issued stark warnings ahead of Bangladesh’s February 12 elections, marred by democratic backsliding. The Awami League, polling at around 30% support, has been banned from participating, while Islamist extremists push for a referendum to permanently alter the constitution. ‘Elections excluding major parties cannot be deemed democratic,’ Blackman asserted, joined by cross-party MPs including Jim Shannon, Jas Athwal, and Chris Law.
In a joint statement, the parliamentarians condemned restrictions on Bangladeshi voters and called for fair polls. Blackman has requested a statement from the Foreign Secretary next week, outlining steps to safeguard minorities and ensure inclusive, independent elections in the South Asian nation. As global scrutiny intensifies, the UK stands poised to influence change in this volatile crisis.