Visa Policy to Protect Religious Minorities in Bangladesh

His Excellency Antony J. Blinken

Secretary of State

U.S. Department of State

2201 C Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20520

 

Subject: Request for Announcement of Visa Policy to Protect Religious Minorities in Bangladesh

 

Dear Secretary Blinken,

 

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to express my gratitude for your recent press statement on the Announcement of the Visa Policy to Promote Democratic Elections in Bangladesh, which demonstrates the United States' commitment to upholding democratic values around the world. Your efforts to support free, fair, and peaceful national elections in Bangladesh are commendable.

 

While I deeply appreciate the United States focus on promoting democratic elections, I would like to draw your attention to another pressing issue of great concern—religious minority rights in Bangladesh. As you may be aware, Bangladesh is home to a diverse population, including religious minorities such as Hindus, Christians, Buddhists, and others. Unfortunately, in recent years, these religious minority communities have faced numerous challenges and human rights violations that demand our immediate attention.

 

Religious minorities in Bangladesh have been subjected to discrimination, violence, and persecution, leading to a sense of insecurity and fear within their communities. Incidents of forced conversions, land grabs, desecration of religious places, and targeted violence have become alarmingly common. These acts not only violate fundamental human rights but also erode the fabric of the tolerant and pluralistic society that Bangladesh has aspired to be.

 

Given the United States' commitment to safeguarding human rights and promoting religious freedom globally, I kindly request you to consider making an announcement regarding a Visa Policy aimed at protecting religious minorities in Bangladesh. Such a policy would be a significant step in ensuring the safety and well-being of these vulnerable communities.

 

Under this proposed Visa Policy, the United States could restrict the issuance of visas to Bangladeshi individuals believed to be responsible for or complicit in acts that undermine religious freedom, including those involved in inciting violence, promoting hate speech, or perpetrating acts of persecution against religious minorities. By sending a clear message that the United States stands firmly against religious persecution, we can encourage the Bangladeshi government to take immediate action to protect the rights of religious minorities.

 

I believe that the announcement of this Visa Policy would serve as a powerful tool in addressing the ongoing challenges faced by religious minorities in Bangladesh. It would demonstrate the United States' unwavering commitment to upholding human rights and religious freedom, while also encouraging the Bangladeshi government to prioritize the protection of its citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs.

 

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I am confident that your leadership and the proactive stance of the United States will contribute to creating a more inclusive and tolerant society, not only in Bangladesh but throughout the world.

 

Yours sincerely,

Please accept our sincere wishes to you and the people of India. Joy Bangla!

 

With the sincerest gratitude,

Minhaz Samad Chowdhury, Independent HR Defender, 29^th May 2023

(Focuses on State Violence against and Land Rights of Minorities in Bangladesh)

Email: rightsmanbest@gmail.com  www.hr-defender.blogspot.com

Endless gratified thanks for reading /watching /listening