Unrest in Bangladesh: Rise of Jamaat-e-Islami and interests of US Deep State
The radical Islamists have taken over Bangladesh in a successful coup. Let's Dive into the Political Turmoil and International Intrigues
Bangladesh is no stranger to political unrest, but the recent wave of disturbances has taken a particularly dark turn, leading to significant consequences both domestically and internationally. In recent weeks, Bangladesh has been engulfed in political turmoil that has shaken the very foundation of its society. What began as protests against a controversial quota system for government jobs has spiraled into widespread looting and rioting, leaving the country in chaos. The resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her subsequent flight to India have only added fuel to the fire, with Islamist factions celebrating her downfall.
The Spark: Quota System Controversy
The initial trigger for the unrest was the government's decision to implement a new quota system for government jobs. This system reserved a significant portion of positions for certain groups, which many viewed as unfair and discriminatory. The public reaction was swift and fierce, with protests erupting across the country. Demonstrators demanded a more merit-based system and greater transparency in the recruitment process.
As the protests gained momentum, they quickly escalated into violent confrontations with the authorities. Reports of police using excessive force further inflamed the situation, leading to widespread looting and rioting.
The student protests were later turned into an extensive unrest as Jamaat-e-Islami entered the scene. Jamaat-e-Islami, a radical Islamist political organization, seized the opportunity to further its agenda. The group, which has a long history of opposition to Sheikh Hasina's government, capitalized on the chaos. Anti-government riots orchestrated by Jamaat-e-Islami led to significant destruction and violence. The unrest soon turned into a full-scale assault on the government, resulting in the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s administration.
Islamist Celebrations and Minority Persecution
The resignation of Sheikh Hasina was met with jubilation by Islamist groups, who viewed her as an obstacle to their agenda. Following their victory, Jamaat-e-Islami supporters celebrated by targeting Hindu communities. There were widespread reports of attacks on Hindu houses, vandalism of temples, and the desecration of statues, including that of the nation's founder. This has raised concerns about the true nature of the protests. While many participants were genuinely opposed to the quota system and government corruption, there is growing evidence that Islamist factions have used the unrest as a cover to push for a coup and target minority communities, particularly Hindus.
Historical Context: Persecution of Hindus
The treatment of Hindus in Bangladesh has a long and tragic history. In the 1950s, Hindus made up a significant portion of the population, but their numbers have dwindled drastically over the decades due to persecution and violence. The 1971 genocide, during which an estimated three million people were killed, included targeted attacks on the Hindu community. This dark chapter in Bangladesh's history continues to cast a shadow over the present-day treatment of minorities.
In the 1950s, Hindus constituted around 22% of Bangladesh's population. Today, that number has fallen to less than 10%. This drastic demographic shift is a stark reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by the Hindu community in a predominantly Muslim country. The hatred towards Hindus is fuelled by anti-India sentiments and radical teachings of Islam.
The International Dimension: The Role of the US Deep State
Amidst this internal chaos, there are growing suspicions about the role of the US deep state in the unfolding events. It is believed that the US has strategic interests in the region, which include countering China's influence.
The relationship between the US and Sheikh Hasina's government was often not synchronized. There were many disagreements between them. One notable incident is, Sheikh Hasina’s refusal of a proposal from the United States to set up a military base in Bangladesh. These disagreements might have prompted US to use other methods to achieve their goal.
There are allegations that the US aims to divide Bangladesh into two distinct nations: a western Christian state and an eastern Muslim state ruled by extremists like Jamaat-e-Islami.
The Creation of Kukiland
The proposed Christian state, Kukiland, is intended to serve as a homeland for the Christian Kuki people. This division is seen as part of a broader strategy to create a foothold for the US in South Asia. The Christian state would ostensibly be a buffer against Muslim extremism while simultaneously providing a base of operations for US interests.
Rohingya Influx and Military Bases
In this scenario, approximately 1 million Rohingya refugees currently in Bangladesh would be incorporated into the Muslim state. There are also reports suggesting that the US might acquire Bangladesh’s St. Martin's Island to convert it into a military base. This strategic location would offer the US a significant advantage in monitoring and countering Chinese activities in the region.
The China Angle: Countering Beijing's Influence
The US deep state's alleged alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami can be seen as a move to counter China's growing influence in South Asia. By supporting a radical Muslim state, the US could ostensibly address the issue of China's persecution of Uyghurs, thereby creating enmity between the new Bangladeshi regime and China. This geopolitical maneuvering aims to weaken China's position and curb its regional ambitions.
If these assumptions hold any truth, we can observe a complex China-US play in steering Jamaat-e-Islami which is backed by Pakistan, which is often seen as a puppet of China and an ally to US. This scenario presents significant challenges and threats to regional stability and security of India.
Conclusion: A Nation at a Crossroads
The political unrest in Bangladesh is a complex web of domestic discontent and international intrigue. The fall of Sheikh Hasina's government, the rise of Jamaat-e-Islami, and the subsequent violence against Hindu communities mark a dark chapter in the nation's history. Coupled with allegations of US intervention and strategic maneuvering, the situation in Bangladesh remains volatile and uncertain. The potential division of the country and the establishment of a US military base signal a significant shift in the regional balance of power, with far-reaching implications for South Asia and beyond
Indian govt should do something. I think there is a provision for army to intervene, upto 50km beyond the border. If that provision is real, Govt should make use of it. In India, Hindus doesn't have unity. Radicals are misusing it. Hindus believe "secularism" and "religious tolerance", if someone react to those radicals, they are lablled as communal. Our current PM Narendra Modi and his ruling party, are good at cracking down the extremists. But many Hindus hate his govt, calling him communal. He and his ruling party is affiliated with RSS(A hindu nationalist org started in 1925). They are keeping the radicals in check. While some of their actions can be condemned, they are needed for countering Islamic radicals, which often many "pseudo seculars" doesn't accept. RSS and it's affiliated organisations are almost having the same image that Israel have right now.
Having read some of the Islamic holy book I'd argue that all Islam is radical