In a compelling statement, Johnnie Moore, a former US Commissioner on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), has voiced serious concerns over the treatment of minorities in Bangladesh. Expressing surprise at the Biden administration’s apparent lack of attention to the issue, Moore highlighted the existential threat facing minority groups in the country and the broader implications for Bangladesh’s stability.
Speaking in an interview with ANI, Moore criticised the Biden administration for failing to prioritise the situation. He linked this oversight to what he described as a flawed foreign policy, noting, “One of the reasons for the change in administration is that the current administration has not paid attention to many critical issues globally. Today, there are over 50 conflicts worldwide, more than at any point since World War II.”
Moore expressed optimism regarding Donald Trump’s imminent return to the presidency, asserting that the former president is assembling a team dedicated to promoting American values and strengthening alliances with nations such as India. According to Moore, “Donald Trump is coming to Washington, DC, with an incredible team of advocates for American values. They view countries like India as indispensable allies in shaping the future of the world.”
A Historic US-India Alliance
Highlighting Trump’s potential foreign policy priorities, Moore emphasised the strategic alliance between the United States and India. He described the partnership as historically significant, saying, “There’s no challenge in the world that cannot be solved when the genius of Indian culture and American culture come together. This isn’t just about Indian-American constituents; it’s about recognising the profound potential of our combined cultures.”
Moore pointed to individuals like Vivek Ramaswamy, a key advisor to Trump, as evidence of the growing influence of the Indian-American community in shaping US policy. He also underscored the significance of this alliance in advocating for global religious freedom, which he said was a cornerstone of Trump’s first administration and would remain a priority.
Criticism of Bangladesh’s Human Rights Record
Turning to Bangladesh, Moore expressed grave concern over violence against religious minorities, particularly Hindus, and the arrest of prominent religious leader Chinmoy Krishna Das. He condemned the silence of the international community, particularly human rights organisations, in addressing these atrocities.
“When the Hindu community is persecuted, fewer people tend to speak up. This silence is unacceptable. I am calling for global human rights and religious freedom organisations to raise their voices,” Moore said. He emphasised the need for collective action to safeguard the rights of all minorities in Bangladesh, describing the current situation as an “existential threat”.
Moore also criticised the perceived failure of interim leaders in Bangladesh to uphold democratic values and the rule of law. He argued that the persecution of figures like Das creates a chilling effect among minority communities, fostering fear and insecurity.
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India’s Response
India has also expressed its concern over the ongoing violence and suppression of minorities in Bangladesh. In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das and the subsequent denial of his bail. The MEA noted a disturbing trend of attacks on minorities, including cases of arson, looting, and the desecration of temples and deities.
“It is unfortunate that while the perpetrators of these incidents remain at large, charges are being pressed against a religious leader who has presented legitimate demands through peaceful gatherings,” the statement read.
India called on the Bangladeshi government to ensure the safety and security of all minorities, as well as their right to peaceful assembly and free expression.
A Call to Action
Moore’s remarks come amid growing international scrutiny of Bangladesh’s human rights record. He urged the global community, including Western governments, to break their silence and take decisive action to protect vulnerable populations.
“This is a call to advocate for human rights and religious freedom,” he stated. Moore also reaffirmed solidarity between the global Christian community and the Hindu community in Bangladesh, pledging continued efforts to bring attention to their plight.
As political transitions loom in the United States, Moore’s statements underline the potential for a more proactive American stance on international human rights issues, particularly in South Asia. With Trump’s return to office on the horizon, the dynamics of US foreign policy may shift significantly, bringing new focus to regions like Bangladesh where minority rights are under threat.
