Protect property of minority communities

Investigate allegations, take action

In a recently called press conference, Bangladesh Hindu Buddha Christian Oikya Parishad (BHBCOP) voiced allegations that property belonging to minority groups is being grabbed by 'influential ruling party men'. A minister, some

lawmakers and a coterie of officials are said to be behind attempted or actual takeover of property. It is alleged that ownership of hundreds of decimals of land and a house has been transferred from a Hindu landlord in Faridpur by forcing him to sign a preliminary deed. In the same case, an old temple and Ashram were purportedly demolished. Some members of minority communities have also been harassed with false cases and at times tortured.

These are serious allegations involving the rights of minorities as the credibility of the government is coming under avoidable question mark. Indeed a suggestion has been proffered to set up a separate ministry for religious minorities. The first step is to allay any fear in the minds of minority communities that their right to property is not infringed upon by political opportunist elements. Now a thorough investigation should be ordered into the allegations of dubious property takeover and a strong signal given to persons indulging in such improprieties.