Modi and Trump: Strategic Approaches to Address Violence Against Minorities in Bangladesh
Team Finance Saathi
16/Nov/2024

What's covered under the Article:
- Bangladesh’s escalating violence against religious minorities, especially Hindus.
- Modi and Trump’s potential roles in addressing the issue through diplomatic advocacy.
- Strategic push for early elections in Bangladesh.
- The possibility of continued violence and the need for institutional safeguards.
In the midst of Bangladesh’s political turmoil, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President-elect Donald Trump are confronted with a critical question: how can they address the growing violence against religious minorities, particularly Hindus, and restore peace and stability in the nation?
Bangladesh's Shift in Politics: Yunus’s Rise and Global Silence
The rise of Muhammad Yunus to the role of Chief Adviser has raised alarm. A known ally of the American Democratic establishment, Yunus entered office with the backing of key figures like the Clintons and Obamas. His appointment under the Biden administration initially assured a sympathetic stance towards Bangladesh’s internal matters, with little external pressure for action on human rights abuses.
However, the quiet tolerance towards the violence against minorities came to an abrupt end when Trump posted on X on 31 October, condemning the violence as "barbaric." This move brought global attention to the persecution of minority communities, particularly the Hindus in Bangladesh. While this has created an international spotlight on the issue, Trump and Modi’s strategic involvement could be pivotal in reducing the violence and bringing about real change.
Bangladesh: Not a Priority for Trump, But Modi’s Role is Critical
As Trump prepares for his January 2025 inauguration, it’s clear that his focus will largely remain on domestic issues like economic reforms, tax cuts, immigration policies, and handling the ongoing China challenge. Bangladesh, despite the humanitarian crisis, is unlikely to be a top priority for his administration at the start.
However, India can play a crucial role in pushing the US to elevate the issue of religious violence in Bangladesh to an international priority. Modi, given India’s geographical and cultural ties with Bangladesh, can leverage his diplomatic channels to ensure that Washington recognizes the urgency of the situation and pressures the Bangladeshi leadership to take stronger actions to protect its vulnerable religious minorities.
Pushing for Early Elections: A Way Forward
One effective way for Modi and Trump to intervene is by advocating for early elections in Bangladesh. This is a demand already raised by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which has gained significant momentum. The BNP is pushing for Yunus to step down within a year, allowing for a transition to a more inclusive and democratic government, one that could better address the issues of minority rights and national stability.
By joining forces with the US, India can exert international pressure on Bangladesh’s leadership to hold elections sooner rather than later. Such a move could pave the way for a more democratic transition, which is crucial for long-term peace and stability.
Persistent Challenges and Long-Term Impact
Despite these interventions, experts suggest that the violence against minorities in Bangladesh may not disappear entirely. While large-scale incidents may decline after the US elections, smaller, isolated attacks could persist in a low-key manner, posing ongoing threats to minority communities without attracting widespread international attention.
Even with the potential for such incidents, the involvement of both Trump and Modi could help lay the groundwork for stronger institutional protections for minorities. By supporting institutional reforms and creating a sustainable framework for minority protection, they can ensure that the human rights of Bangladesh’s religious minorities are safeguarded, even as threats persist beneath the surface.
Conclusion: A Strategic Path Forward for Bangladesh
Though immediate, sweeping change may not be realistic, the collaboration between Trump and Modi offers significant opportunities to influence Bangladesh’s future. Through India’s diplomatic push, the US’s support, and strategic advocacy for early elections, there is the potential to reduce violence, improve minority rights, and help steer Bangladesh towards a more stable and inclusive future.
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