Hindu Janajagruti Samiti Calls for Cancellation of India-Bangladesh Cricket Matches Over Atrocities in Bangladesh

Mumbai, 16th September 2024: The Hindu Janajagruti Samiti has vehemently opposed the upcoming cricket matches between India and Bangladesh, demanding their cancellation until the violence against Hindus in Bangladesh ceases. The Samiti has labeled the planned series as a “disgraceful act” that exacerbates the suffering of Hindus in the region.

In a statement submitted to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the Samiti urged the board to cancel all scheduled cricket matches between the two nations, as well as any cultural events involving Bangladeshi artists. The statement was presented by Advocate Anish Paralkar of the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti, alongside Vinayak Shinde from the Manav Seva Pratishthan, Advocate Rahul Patkar, Ravindra Dasari, and Sandeep Tulsakar. A copy of the statement was also sent to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Union Sports Minister, and the External Affairs Minister.

The upcoming India-Bangladesh cricket series, which includes two Test matches and three T20Is scheduled from September 19 to October 12, 2024, will be hosted in Chennai, Kanpur, Gwalior, Delhi, and Hyderabad. However, the Samiti pointed out that the Hindu community in Bangladesh is facing severe persecution, with over 230 reported deaths and widespread anti-Hindu violence affecting 52 of the country’s 64 districts.

The statement highlighted the intensification of attacks following the resignation of the Sheikh Hasina government, particularly in rural areas where Hindus are living in constant fear. The recent brutal assault of a young Hindu, Utsav Mandal, by a mob inside a police station over alleged blasphemy charges further underscores the grave situation.

The Hindu Janajagruti Samiti called for India to adopt a stance similar to that of Muslim countries, which often unite in opposition to attacks on their communities. “While fanatical Jihadis in Bangladesh openly kill Hindus, burn their homes, vandalize temples, seize land, and rape Hindu women, how can we continue to engage in cricket matches with them? We will not tolerate this,” the committee declared.

The Samiti’s demand emphasizes that sporting events should not overshadow the urgent need for addressing human rights violations and ensuring the safety and dignity of Hindus in Bangladesh.