‘Deeply concerning’: UK MP Priti Patel flags surge in attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh

In a letter to UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, Patel cited reports indicating that at least six Hindus were killed in Bangladesh over an 18-day period. “The reports of increasing religious violence and persecution in Bangladesh are deeply concerning and worrying,” she wrote, adding that “this level of persecution and violence is unacceptable”.

Referring to an Urgent Question raised in the House of Commons on December 2, 2024, on attacks against the Hindu community in Bangladesh, Patel noted that the then Minister for the Indo-Pacific had said she was engaging with Bangladeshi authorities on the protection of religious minorities and had committed to continued monitoring of the situation.

“Given the increase in violence, can you advise what steps have been taken over the last year to monitor and make representations?” Patel asked in her letter.

She also sought details on recent direct contacts between UK ministers and Bangladeshi authorities, the assurances received regarding measures to protect Hindu communities, and whether the Bangladesh High Commissioner in the UK had been engaged on the issue.

Sharing the letter on X, Patel urged the British government to use its influence and convening power to help bring stability to Bangladesh and ensure a future in which religious freedoms are protected and Hindus can live safely.

Meanwhile, the Human Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities said that between June 6, 2025, and January 5, 2026, it documented 116 minority deaths across all eight divisions and 45 districts of Bangladesh.