U.S. lawmaker seeks targeted sanctions against Bangladesh

American Congressman calls for sanctions on Bangladesh for human rights violations against minorities, urging action for peace and justice.

Expressing a sense of urgency on the escalating crisis of human rights violations in Bangladesh, an influential American Congressman called on the US Departments of Treasury and State on Wednesday to impose and enforce sanctions on those perpetrating these heinous acts against minorities in the South Asian country.

"I call on the Departments of Treasury and State to impose and enforce sanctions on those perpetrating these heinous acts against minorities in Bangladesh," Indian American Congressman Shri Thanedar said in front of the US Capitol on Wednesday (December 18, 2024) in the presence of Hindu Americans who had come from various parts of the country.

Also read: ‘Bangladesh interim govt. blind to genocide against Hindus’

Since July, he said, Bangladesh has experienced a spike in political violence, leading to the resignation and departure of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.

"Since then, we have seen Bangladesh plunge into political turmoil, with its Hindu, Buddhist and Christian minorities bearing the brunt of violent acts towards their people and places of worship by a majority Muslim population," Mr. Thanedar said.

"The creation of a new government with Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus is yet another attempt in their history to obtain lasting peace and stability for the country. While I have my concerns regarding this new government, I am hopeful that with our assistance, Bangladesh will finally find a peaceful resolution to these conflicts," he said.

The United States has a storied history of championing the oppressed and this issue should be no different, he noted. "When we receive a global call for help, we must respond appropriately as the world's bellwether of human rights. We must urge Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus to fulfil his promise of restoring peace and rebuilding the nation on the principles of equality and justice," Mr. Thanedar said.