The New York Times faced widespread criticism on Thursday after it described the anti-Hindu violence in Bangladesh following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina as “revenge attacks.” The phrasing sparked outrage across social media platforms, prompting the U.S. media outlet to quietly change its headline. However, the absence of an apology or an explanation from the publication has further fueled the controversy.
The violence in Bangladesh has drawn international attention, with reports of hundreds of Hindu homes, businesses, and temples being vandalized amid the unrest. The turmoil erupted after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was forced out of office, exacerbated by the ongoing controversy over a quota system that reserves 30% of jobs for families of veterans who fought in the 1971 liberation war.
Prominent voices criticized The New York Times for its characterization of the violence. Swaminathan Gurumurthy, a member of RBI‘s board of directors and Sanjeev Sanyal, a member of PM Modi’s Economic Advisory Council were among those who called out the publication.
Indian government has spoken out against persecution of Hindus
In response to the escalating violence, India has voiced its concerns. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated, “What was particularly worrying was that minorities, their businesses, and temples also came under attack at multiple locations.” India has taken precautionary measures by evacuating non-essential staff and their families from its embassy and consulates in Bangladesh, while ensuring that all diplomatic missions remain operational.
The situation has led to the evacuation of Indian citizens as well. An Air India flight carrying 199 passengers and six infants from Dhaka landed in Delhi early Wednesday morning. According to sources, the flight was arranged at short notice despite infrastructure challenges at Dhaka Airport.
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Hindus, who make up about 8% of Bangladesh’s 170 million population, have historically supported Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League, a party known for its secular stance. The recent attacks have been particularly troubling for the Hindu community, which has found itself targeted amid the political upheaval.
The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council (BHBCUC) reported that between 200 and 300 Hindu homes and businesses were vandalized since Monday, with 15 to 20 Hindu temples damaged. While up to 40 people have been injured, none are reported to be in critical condition, according to the Council’s general secretary, Rana Dasgupta.
The violence in Bangladesh has also drawn condemnation from global leaders. Ro Khanna, a U.S. representative from California, criticized the targeting of Hindus in the wake of Sheikh Hasina’s departure. “Bangladeshi students had just human rights concerns against PM Hasina. It’s good she is gone. But the violence now targeting Hindus is wrong. PM Yunus must uphold the rule of law & prevent the targeting of temples or people of any political party or faith from violence,” Khanna said on X.
As the situation in Bangladesh remains tense, the global community continues to watch closely, urging the new government to protect minorities and restore peace.
NYT Faces Backlash for Labeling Anti-Hindu Violence in Bangladesh ‘Revenge Attacks’ world-news World News | Latest International News | Global World News | World News Today
