The Honorable Congressman
Bob Good (VA-05)
The Honorable Congressman Scott Perry (PA-10)
The Honorable Congressman
Barry Moore (AL-02) The Honorable Congressman Tim Burchett (TN-02
The Honorable Congressman
Warren Davidson (OH-08) The Honorable Congressman Keith
Self (TX-03)
CC: The Honourable Under Secretary of State Victoria Nuland The Honourable Asst.
Secretary Donald Lu
Subject: Request for Announcement of Visa
Policy to Protect Religious Minorities in Bangladesh
Dear Congressmen, Under Secretary of State Victoria Nuland
& Assistant Secretary Donald Lu
I hope this letter finds you in
good health and high spirits. I am writing to express my appreciation for your
efforts in joining the call to end human rights abuses in Bangladesh, specifically
addressing the actions of the government of Bangladesh. It is crucial to ensure
that the people of Bangladesh have the best possible chance for free and fair
parliamentary elections scheduled this fall.
While I commend your efforts to address these human rights
abuses and promote democratic values, I would like to draw your attention to
another critical issue that demands immediate attention—religious minority
rights in Bangladesh. Bangladesh is home to a diverse population, including
Hindus, Christians, Buddhists, and others. Unfortunately, these religious
minority communities have faced numerous challenges and human rights violations
in recent years.
Religious minorities in Bangladesh are subjected to discrimination,
violence, and persecution, which instils 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
Bangladesh's aspired tolerant and pluralistic society.
Considering the United States' commitment to safeguarding human rights and
promoting religious freedom globally, I kindly request your support in
advocating for an announcement of a Visa Policy aimed at protecting religious
minorities in Bangladesh. Such a policy would play a vital role in ensuring the
safety and well-being of these vulnerable communities.
Under this proposed Visa Policy, the United States could impose
restrictions on issuing visas to Bangladeshi individuals believed to be
responsible for or complicit in acts that undermine religious freedom. This
includes 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 in safeguarding the rights of religious minorities.
I firmly 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 not only demonstrate the United States' unwavering commitment to
upholding human rights and religious freedom but also encourage the Bangladeshi
government to prioritize the protection of all its citizens, regardless of
their religious beliefs.
Thank you for your attention to
this matter. I am confident that your leadership, along with 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.
Please accept our sincere
wishes to you and the people of The United States. Joy Bangla!
-
With the sincerest gratitude,
Minhaz Samad
Chowdhury, Independent HR Defender, 6th
June 2023
(Focuses on State Violence against and Land Rights of
Minorities in Bangladesh)
Email: rightsmanbest@gmail.com www.hr-defender.blogspot.com
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