Washington DC [US], November 29: Former USCIRF Commissioner Johnnie Moore has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation for minorities in Bangladesh, calling it an “existential threat” to the country and its minority communities. Moore also criticized the Biden administration for its lack of attention to the crisis, while emphasizing the need for a stronger India-US partnership under President-elect Donald Trump’s administration.
Concern Over Bangladesh
In an interview, Moore pointed to rising violence and discrimination against minorities in Bangladesh, including Hindus and other religious groups. He specifically condemned the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, a prominent Hindu priest, by Bangladeshi authorities, calling it a deeply troubling sign for the country’s minority communities.
Moore said, “The perception among minorities in Bangladesh is, ‘If they’ll go after him, they’ll go after any of us.’ This moment calls for global advocacy for human rights and religious freedom.”
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has also expressed concern over recent attacks on Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. In a statement, the MEA noted multiple cases of arson, vandalism, and desecration of temples, urging Bangladesh authorities to protect minorities and ensure their right to peaceful assembly.
Criticism of Biden Administration
Moore criticized the Biden administration for its lack of focus on the Bangladesh crisis. “I am astonished that the current administration hasn’t been paying more attention to Bangladesh,” Moore said. “One of the reasons for a change in leadership in the US is because the current foreign policy has neglected several global issues, leading to over 50 conflicts around the world.”
Trump’s Vision for India-US Relations
Moore highlighted the incoming Trump administration’s commitment to prioritizing human rights and strengthening ties with India.
“Donald Trump is coming with an incredible team of advocates for American values who view India as an indispensable ally in shaping the future of the world,” Moore said. He emphasized the cultural and strategic alignment between the two nations, stating, “There’s no challenge in the world that cannot be solved when the genius of Indian and American cultures come together.”
Moore also underlined the historic opportunity for an unprecedented alliance between India and the US. “This is a moment of deep collaboration between our two cultures, not just our countries,” he added, pointing to key Indian-American figures like Vivek Ramaswamy in Trump’s team.
Global Call for Action
Moore called for international human rights organizations to raise their voices against the persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh. He noted that violence against Hindus often receives less attention globally, urging advocacy groups to act decisively.
The former USCIRF Commissioner also referenced the interim Bangladeshi leadership’s unfulfilled promises of democracy and rule of law, stressing that this is a critical moment for advocacy.
“The global Christian community stands with the Hindu community in Bangladesh. This is a call for unity to defend religious freedom and human rights,” Moore said.
