Ousted PM alleges surge in minority violence ahead of elections
January 8, 2026: Ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has accused Bangladesh’s interim government of allowing a surge in violence against minorities ahead of the February 12 general elections. Calling the situation barbaric and shameful she said law and order has collapsed and the state has failed to protect citizens equally.
Speaking from India Hasina said attacks carried out in the name of religion have become frequent and unchecked. She alleged perpetrators are rarely prosecuted and accused interim chief Muhammad Yunus of denying the religious nature of the violence. She warned that the insecurity threatens Bangladesh’s secular and democratic foundations.
Her remarks come amid reports of rising attacks on Hindus with rights groups recording dozens of incidents in December including murders arson and assaults. Hasina also warned of growing Islamic extremism saying radical forces have been legitimised under the interim administration risking economic damage and regional instability.