By Sharunya Raja

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 14: At least 50 people have been injured in the violence in Comilla, Bangladesh after a group of mobs attacked Hindu temples.

According to Dipan Mitra, Secretary General of the World Hindu Federation-Bangladesh Chapter, extremist Muslim organisations hid the Al Quran and placed it at the feet of Lord Hunuman’s idol inside the Nanuar Dighir Par Durga Mandir, collecting images and sharing them on social media.

“Then they made a big deal about disrespecting Islam and collected a throng to assault. Unfortunately, none of the members of the puja committee were aware of it.

“They assaulted Nanuar Dighir Par Durga Mandir, vandalising all the statues and deconstructing the Durga temple,” he told The Hindu Press.

“It was a well-thought-out attack. The muslims then assaulted the Nrisingh Dev and Dashavuja Kali temples in the Chatipatti region of Comilla town,” he added.

He also claimed that the police remained completely silent and did nothing to halt the atrocities. After that, they stormed Rishipara Mandir and set fire to it, completely destroying the temple.

“Local Hindus and temple committee members have phoned the police and the fire department, but no one has stepped forward to defend the temples and the Hindus.

“The Rajeswari Kali Temple in Monohorpur was also assaulted by Muslims.

This situation is continuing.

“Muslims are now assaulting Hindus in Thakurpara and Chakbazar Kapuria Patti, vandalising their homes and stealing any valuables.

“The police and local government have taken no action to halt this horrific attack on Hindus and have even turned off electricity and internet access to prevent local Hindus from communicating with one another and sharing documentation related to the incident.

“Local Hindu authorities have now decided to put an end to all Durga Pujas in Comilla town.

“All Hindus in Comilla town are in perilous situations and live-in total fear. Bangladeshi Hindus are now hoping for international help and collaboration to preserve Hindus in Comilla town.

Dipan also demanded that all the perpetrators be apprehended and punished severely.

He also urged the government to conduct a fair trial of such crimes, as well as proper compensation and security for the victims.