During a recent Carmel City Council meeting, members of the Hindu American community voiced urgent concerns regarding escalating violence against Hindus in Bangladesh. Representing over 4 million Hindus in the United States, speakers highlighted a significant deterioration in the safety and rights of minorities in Bangladesh, particularly following a political upheaval that led to the ousting of the government.

One speaker, a representative of the community, described the situation as a \"genocide\" against Hindus, citing reports of widespread attacks on homes, businesses, and places of worship. The violence, which has intensified in recent weeks, has reportedly resulted in forced conversions, murders, and public displays of brutality against women. The speaker emphasized that the Hindu population in Bangladesh has plummeted from 28% in 1941 to less than 8% today, underscoring a long history of persecution.

Another community member, Shiva Iyer, called for the city council to pass a resolution condemning the violence and urging the U.S. government to take action. He criticized the lack of media coverage and governmental response to the crisis, stressing the need for international intervention to prevent further atrocities.

In a lighter segment of the meeting, Anaya Burst from Hindu Swim Sevak Sang USA spoke about the festival of Raksha Bandhan, which symbolizes protection and community support. She highlighted the importance of collective responsibility and the contributions of community leaders and first responders, tying the theme of protection to the ongoing struggles faced by Hindus in Bangladesh.

The discussions at the meeting reflect a growing concern within the Hindu American community about the safety of their counterparts abroad and a call for local and national leaders to take a stand against religious persecution.