Former US President Donald Trump, in a Diwali message on Thursday, condemned the atrocities faced by Hindus in Bangladesh, especially after the fall of the Hasina emirate. He also vowed to protect Hindu Americans from “anti-religious policies” and fight for their freedoms.
“I strongly condemn the barbaric violence against Hindus, Christians and other minorities being attacked and looted by mobs in Bangladesh, which is in utter chaos. It would never have happened on my watch,” Trump said. ” he said. Post to X.
This is the first time Trump has spoken out about the Bangladesh issue.
The US presidential candidate has slammed her Democratic rival Kamala Harris and President Joe Biden, saying they are “ignoring” Hindus not only in the US but around the world.
“Kamala and Joe have ignored Hindus around the world and in America. They have wrought disaster from Israel to Ukraine to our southern border, but we will make America strong again and restore peace through strength.” Let’s go!” he said.
Trump, who extended his Diwali wishes to Indians, also vowed to strengthen his partnership with India and his “good friend” Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“Under my administration, we will also strengthen our great partnership with India and my good friend Prime Minister Modi. I also wish everyone a Happy Diwali. The Festival of Lights will lead to the triumph of good over evil. I hope so,” he wrote.
I strongly condemn the barbaric violence against Hindus, Christians and other minorities being attacked and pillaged by mobs in Bangladesh, which remains in utter chaos.
That would never have happened on my watch. Kamala and Joe have ignored Hindus all over the world…
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 31, 2024
Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country on August 5, ending her 15-year rule as student protests against the government intensified. As a result, the country’s Hindu minority has faced violence and vandalism of temples and businesses. According to the Bangladesh National Hindu Grand Alliance, attacks and intimidation against ethnic minority communities occur in more than 200 locations in 48 districts. Hundreds of Hindus were also killed in July and August this year.
Bangladesh’s Hindu minority makes up about 8 percent of the population.