No Hindus in Police and Civil Services: Controversial Order from Bangladesh Government Sparks Outrage

The government of Bangladesh, under Prime Minister Mohammad Yunus, has issued a controversial directive barring Hindus from being recruited for police and civil services positions. This decision has sparked widespread outrage and allegations of systemic discrimination against the Hindu minority in the country.

According to reports, the Ministry of Home Affairs and Public Service Commission have reportedly told officials not to enlist Hindus as constables, up to high-ranking police officers. More than 1,500 Hindu candidate applications are said to have already been canceled based on this new directive. Furthermore, 79,000 already in process recruitments have also been stopped and recruitment will begin anew in January 2025, excluding Hindus from enlistment.

Far-Reaching and Allegations

Since the exit of Sheikh Hasina's government, anti-Hindu policies have taken sharp turns. The policy says that it wants to nullify Hindu representation in both law enforcement and civil service. More than 100 Hindu officers, assistant superintendents, superintendents, and DIG-ranking officials, have been discharged from their duties. Its place is being occupied by people who are members or supporters of extremist outfits such as Jamaat-e-Islam.

Baharul Alam, Inspector General of Police, has been strictly ordered not to recruit Hindus, even if they are eligible. In addition, the order aims to bar Hindus from passing the Bangladesh Civil Service Examination.

Escalating Attacks on Hindus

Hindus living in Bangladesh are also receiving brutal attacks. Temples along with other religious institutions had been attacked, and several targeted attacks on Hindus brought them to death and possessions. Prime Minister Yunus, before this, announced solving the problems, but that now has been worse under the current government.

Critics are labeling this directive a blatant violation of human rights, which is straining tensions in an already fragile socio-political landscape. International human rights organizations have been called upon to intervene and address the increasing marginalization of Hindus in Bangladesh.