Torchlight march in Dhaka
Students of Dhaka University held a torchlight procession protesting an incident in which an image of Lord Sri Rama was allegedly insulted, triggering widespread attention in Bangladesh.
Statue project paused after threats
In Gaibandha’s Palashbari upazila, a project to build what is described as the country’s largest Sri Rama statue has been temporarily halted. Organisers said some groups have been issuing threats and demanding that the construction be stopped.
Temple committee seeks protection
Haridas Chandra Das, founder and president of the Gomorpur Sri Sri Radha Govinda Temple Committee, said the 81-foot statue is about 80% complete. He alleged that “terrorist groups” have intimidated those involved, leading to the pause, and appealed for security from Prime Minister Tariq Rahman and officials so the work can be completed.
Minority groups demand action
Organisers also alleged pressure to demolish the Radha-Govinda temple in Gaibandha. Minority communities, including Hindus, have urged authorities to act against those issuing threats and to allow the statue construction to resume.
Students cite hurt religious sentiments
At the Dhaka University protest, Ram Prasad Saha Tobu, social welfare secretary of the Jagannath Hall Students’ Association, said rumours were spread about Sri Rama by one extremist group and that another later insulted the deity’s image, hurting the religious sentiments of the Hindu community.
