Bangla opposition, minority groups pin hopes on Trump
Times of India | 8 November 2024
12 Kolkata: The return of Donald Trump as the 47th president of the United States provided substantial optimism to minority groups and opposition members in Bangladesh. Many anticipate that Bangladesh's chief adviser Muhammad Yunus' relationship with America could usher in a transformative period.
They observed that the congratulatory letter issued via a verified Facebook post of Awami League to Donald Trump addressed Sheikh Hasina as the ‘Prime Minister', months after she sought refuge in India. A Bangladeshi who went into hiding following Hasina's removal told TOI, "Change is inevitable. An unelected authoritarian govt is fostering mobocracy alongside communal animosity. Hindus, Buddhists and Awami League supporters are the primary targets of students who maintain control over Dhaka, Chittagong and several other metropolitan areas. India's steadfast ally, Trump, will position this unelected govt in a precarious situation. The Indo-American axis will endeavour to utilise Bangladesh to restrict China."
He noted that the transition from a Democratic to a Republican administration in the US could indicate a substantial shift in US-Bangladesh diplomatic relations, particularly as Yunus no longer possesses support from his Democratic political associates. "During this election campaign, Trump highlighted Hindu and minority oppression in Bangladesh under the current regime. Numerous developments are unfolding. Legal proceedings are being initiated against individuals. Recently, actress Shomi Kaiser was apprehended on murder allegations. Most believe this is retribution for her Awami League support. With Trump's election, we anticipate this circumstance will improve," he said.
An Indian who relocated from Dhaka to Kolkata following the uprising said, "The persecution of minority communities, particularly Hindus and tribal groups, in Bangladesh over the past three months garnered international attention. Trump condemned the violence against Hindus and other minority groups in Bangladesh, criticising the current administration for disregarding Hindu concerns. His position instilled confidence among the persecuted groups, who now anticipate Trump's administration will intervene to cease these persecutions."