Sheikh Hasina First Public Address: Accuses Muhammad Yunus for Genocide in Bangladesh

In her first public address since leaving Bangladesh, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina launched a scathing attack on the country’s interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, accusing him of orchestrating "genocide" and failing to protect minorities, including Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians.

Speaking virtually at an event in New York on Sunday, Hasina criticized the ruling administration for alleged targeted violence against minority communities and claimed there were plots to assassinate her and her sister, Sheikh Rehana, akin to the 1975 assassination of their father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

Claims of Genocide and Persecution

Sheikh Hasina alleged that minorities in Bangladesh have been subjected to relentless attacks under the current regime.

• Targeted Attacks: “Hindus, Buddhists, Christians—no one has been spared. Eleven churches have been destroyed, and temples and Buddhist shrines have been vandalized,” Hasina said, citing the recent arrest of Iskcon leader Chinmoy Krishna Das as an example of state oppression.
• Call for Justice: She questioned the motives behind the persecution, asking, “Why are minorities being ruthlessly attacked? Why is there no justice?”

Forced Exile and Political Instability

Hasina detailed her forced resignation in August 2024 amid anti-government protests and threats to her safety. She recounted the events of August 5, when her official residence in Dhaka was stormed by armed protesters.

• “If security forces had retaliated, it could have led to significant bloodshed. I ordered them not to fire, and within minutes, I was forced to leave,” she said.
• She left Bangladesh hoping to de-escalate violence but expressed regret that her departure did not bring peace.

Legacy and Assassination Plot

Sheikh Hasina reiterated her claims of a plot to assassinate her and drew parallels to her father’s fate.
“When people were dying indiscriminately, I decided to leave. But the violence didn’t stop. The masterminds behind this genocide must be held accountable,” she stated.

Global Spotlight on Minority Rights

Hasina’s remarks come amid international scrutiny of Bangladesh’s handling of minority rights. Violence against the Hindu community and other minorities has surged in recent months, raising alarms globally.

Her speech at the event, organized to commemorate Bangladesh’s Vijay Diwas, highlighted the need for justice and accountability in the country, further intensifying the political discourse surrounding the interim government’s actions.