Protests erupt across Odisha over attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh

A series of protests unfolded in various districts of Odisha, in reaction to reports of violence against Hindus in Bangladesh. These alleged incidents include assaults, mass killings, and the vandalisation of temples.

In Jagatsinghpur, the Hindu Suraksha Manch organised a significant awareness march and later submitted a memorandum to the District Magistrate addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This gathering drew numerous saints, social workers, student groups, and social institutions, showcasing a broad coalition of voices.

A substantial rally was also staged in Kendrapara, where hundreds of monks from different ashrams joined the protest. Participants included members of Bajrang Dal, Hindu Suraksha Manch, Vishwa Hindu Parishad, BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) leaders and activists, alongside ordinary citizens expressing solidarity.

The movement gained momentum in Cuttack too, with demonstrators converging at Choudhury Bazaar Gauri Shankar Park. This protest was led by the district's Hindu Suraksha Manch, attracting participation from prominent Hindu organisations like RSS, Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Bajrang Dal, Hindu Sena, and ISKCON.

 “If Hindus think that their fellow brothers can remain safe around the world just by staying silent, then we are wrong. Sadly, our silence, our devotion and our path of ‘Ahimsa’ is being taken for granted. People of other communities are united, but our Hindu brothers and sisters need to unite and stand together for our fellow brothers and sisters,” appealed Prem Sagar, a sadhu.

Similarly, a BJP leader Tejeswar Parida said, “The amount of atrocities being committed on Hindus in Bangladesh is highly commendable. Temples are being demolished, women are unsafe and Hindu dharma gurus are being jailed there. So, we have come out today in their support.”