Congressional resolution asks B'desh to protect minorities

A bipartisan US Congressional resolution has asked Bangladesh to protect human rights of vulnerable minorities, including Hindus, in that country and prevent growth of extremist groups there.
The resolution was introduced in the US House of Representative yesterday by Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, the only Hindu member of the US Congress.
Describing Bangladesh as a country in turmoil, Gabbard said there are many concerns about the stability of the country, particularly since flawed elections were held last year, and the political violence that has ensued.
"I am particularly concerned over issues of religious freedom, and specifically, attacks against minority Hindus, Christians, Buddhists, and others, in Bangladesh. All too often perpetrators of crimes against minorities go unpunished.

"It's up to the government of Bangladesh to take action to stop those who incite and commit violence and protect the rights of these minorities," Gabbard said on the House floor Wednesday.
"[This resolution] calls on the government of Bangladesh to protect the human rights of all its citizens, particularly its vulnerable minorities, strengthen democratic institutions and rule of law, and prevent the growth of extremist groups," she said.

Congressman Matt Salmon said through this resolution Bangladesh is encouraged to embrace non-violent democratic competition and rule of law, and to shirk political violence and religious extremism.
"We expect Bangladesh to respect human dignity, honour commitments to freedom of expression and religion, and protect the human rights of all citizens, no matter one's political disposition, creed, or religion. This resolution reaffirms our dedication to these principles," Salmon said.

Congressman Bob Dold said as the greatest force for human dignity in the world, the United States has an obligation to send the unequivocal message that we will not tolerate countries that fail to protect the fundamental freedoms of all citizens, especially minorities.