August 13th 2024.
Washington: The recent events in Bangladesh, including the protests and resulting fatalities, have sparked speculation and rumors of US involvement. However, the White House has firmly denied any such claims. During a media briefing on Monday, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean Pierre addressed the issue, stating, "Let me be clear, the United States has had no involvement in these events. Any reports or rumors suggesting otherwise are completely false."
Jean Pierre also emphasized that the future of the Bangladeshi government should be determined by the Bangladeshi people themselves. "This is a decision that should be made by the people of Bangladesh. We firmly believe that they should have the right to determine their own government, and that is our stance. Any allegations of US involvement are simply untrue," she stated.
When asked about the recent protests outside the White House regarding the attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh, Jean Pierre confirmed that the situation is being closely monitored. "We are keeping a close eye on the situation. At this time, I have nothing else to add," she said.
The issue of human rights has been a consistent topic of concern for President Biden. Jean Pierre reiterated this, saying, "The President has been vocal and clear about standing up for human rights, both publicly and privately. However, I do not have any specific engagements to speak of at this time."
Bangladesh is currently facing a tumultuous political climate, with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigning on August 5th amidst widespread protests. What started as demonstrations against a government job quota system quickly turned into larger anti-government movements.
Last week, a large group of people gathered outside the White House to protest the violence targeting minority Hindus and others in Bangladesh since Hasina's resignation. The protesters, which included members of various human rights organizations, Bangladeshi diaspora, and Indian-American Hindu allies, came from different states, including Washington, Maryland, Virginia, and New York. They carried American and Bangladeshi flags and held posters calling for the protection of Bangladeshi minorities.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed concern for the safety and protection of Hindus and other minority communities in Bangladesh in a recent statement. "I extend my best wishes to Professor Muhammad Yunus on his new responsibilities. We hope for a swift return to normalcy and the safety of all minority communities, including Hindus. India remains committed to working with Bangladesh for the betterment of both our peoples," Modi said.
The violence in Bangladesh has caused thousands of Hindus to flee to neighboring India in search of safety. The minority Hindu population, which makes up around 8% of the total population, has traditionally supported Hasina's political party, the Awami League. However, following the recent clashes between anti-quota protesters and security forces, the party has faced backlash.
Several US leaders, including Congressman Pat Fallon and Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, have also voiced their concerns about the alleged violence in Bangladesh. The international community continues to closely watch the situation and hopes for a peaceful resolution.
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