JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) has strongly condemned the ‘deliberate’ disruption of religious harmony at the JM Sen Hall Puja Mandap on Thursday (October 10).

In a statement, the rights body says that six members of the Chattogram Cultural Academy, ‘linked to the Islamic fundamentalist party Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami’, infiltrated the Durga Puja celebration under false pretenses.

After deceptively obtaining permission to perform patriotic songs, they ‘audaciously’ staged an Islamic musical performance in the middle of the dance show.

JMBF demands the immediate arrest of those involved in this act and calls for exemplary punishment through a transparent legal process. The rights body insists that the perpetrators must face the full force of the law for ‘inciting division and undermining religious freedom’.

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Robert Simon, prominent French human rights activist and Chief Adviser of JMBF, said that this blatant act of disrespect during Durga Puja is not only an insult to Hindu beliefs but also an attack on the principles of religious tolerance. “Such actions during a significant religious festival for Bangladesh’s Hindu minority are utterly reprehensible and must not be tolerated in a society that values pluralism and peace.”

Advocate Shahanur Islam, human rights lawyer and Founder-President of JMBF mentioned that this incident highlights the ongoing challenges facing religious minorities in Bangladesh. “We urge political and community leaders to condemn this attack on religious harmony and work towards fostering mutual respect and unity.”

JMBF urges the government and law enforcement agencies to ensure that the minority Hindu community can conduct their religious activities without fear or interference. “It is the state’s responsibility to provide a safe environment where all citizens can worship freely.”

Religious freedom is a cornerstone of any civilized society and any infringement upon it must be met with swift and decisive action. JMBF stands in solidarity with the Hindu community and all minorities in Bangladesh striving for their right to worship and live in peace.