A wave of demonstrations swept through Bangladesh’s capital Dhaka as thousands of members of the Hindu community organised torch marches, human chains, and rallies over the alleged insult of a Lord Ram image.

The demonstrations were led by Hindu organisations, including the Hindu Mahajot, with protesters gathering at key locations such as Shahbagh and the National Press Club. Chanting religious slogans and carrying placards, they demanded the immediate arrest of those allegedly involved in the desecration incident.

The protesters issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the government, warning of larger demonstrations if action was not taken.

Controversy Around the Ram Statue Project

The unrest follows the suspension of the construction of an 81-foot statue of Lord Ram at the Sri Sri Radha Govinda Temple complex in Palashbari, located in the northern Gaibandha district.

The project, estimated at nearly 22 crore Bangladeshi taka, also includes statues of Lord Krishna and Lord Shiva. According to the temple committee, the construction was paused after threats were allegedly issued by extremist groups opposing the project.

With around 80% of the work already completed, temple authorities said the decision to halt construction was taken to avoid further communal tensions and maintain peace.

Growing Concerns Over Minority Rights

The latest protests have once again highlighted concerns regarding the safety and religious freedoms of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh, who account for nearly 8% of the country’s population.

Community groups have accused the government of failing to act quickly against those responsible for the alleged desecration. They have also warned that if the Ram statue project is permanently stopped, they will launch a larger movement to establish Ram temples across all 64 districts of Bangladesh.

The developments come amid continued concerns over communal violence in the country, with more than 130 incidents reported during the first three months of the year. While the Bangladeshi leadership has repeatedly stated that citizens of all faiths have equal rights, the latest unrest has intensified the debate over minority protection and religious harmony.