Guwahati: Over 100 residents from Assam's Cachar district have urged the Norwegian Nobel Committee to address alleged atrocities against minorities in Bangladesh under the interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. In a memorandum submitted to the Cachar district commissioner on Monday, the group, which included three lawyers and 107 citizens, called for the committee to issue a statement condemning the reported violence.
The document highlighted that the alleged acts of violence and persecution against Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh have reached unprecedented levels during Yunus' association with the interim government. The memorandum stated, “This letter draws attention to the atrocities perpetrated against the Hindu community in Bangladesh, which undermine the ideals of the Nobel Peace Prize – peace, justice, and human dignity.”
Allegations of Institutional Persecution
The signatories claimed the violence against minorities is not isolated but part of a systemic campaign. They pointed to accusations from former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has publicly described Yunus as the “mastermind” behind these violent attacks.
“Dr. Yunus’ inability to safeguard minority rights has drawn widespread condemnation,” the letter stated, adding that such actions contradict the values of peace and justice associated with the Nobel Peace Prize.
Call for Action and Reassessment
The memorandum urged the Nobel Committee to take a firm stance, warning that continued silence on these issues would undermine the credibility of the Nobel Peace Prize. It proposed immediate steps, including:
- Issuing a public statement condemning violence against minorities in Bangladesh.
- Reminding Dr. Yunus of the moral obligations tied to being a Nobel laureate.
- Urging him to take concrete actions to protect minority rights.
The letter further recommended that the Nobel Committee reassess its selection criteria to ensure future recipients uphold values of peace, justice, and human dignity, and avoid involvement in any form of violence or discrimination.
A Plea for Justice
The signatories emphasized the need for the Nobel Committee to reaffirm its commitment to its founding ideals, stating, “The Nobel Peace Prize risks losing its moral authority if awarded to individuals whose actions contradict the principles it represents.”
This appeal from Cachar residents brings attention to the persistent challenges faced by minorities in Bangladesh and seeks accountability from global institutions. The response from the Nobel Committee could set a significant precedent in reinforcing the values of peace and justice worldwide.
