A resolution urging the U.S. government to investigate allegations of abuse against religious minorities in Bangladesh took center stage at the New Hampshire House State-Federal Relations and Veterans Affairs Committee meeting on January 24, 2025. The resolution, HR 11, was introduced by Representative Abu Khan, who expressed deep concern over the escalating violence and persecution faced by Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, and other minorities in his native country.

Khan, who immigrated to the U.S. 45 years ago, described a troubling shift in Bangladesh since August 2024, when a fundamentalist group seized power, leading to widespread unrest and targeted attacks on religious minorities. He highlighted the arrest of a prominent Hindu leader, Chinmoy Krishnadash, who was detained without due process for advocating minority rights. "The government is not taking any step to stop this kind of violence," Khan stated, urging his colleagues to support the resolution to show solidarity with oppressed groups.

The committee engaged in a robust discussion about the implications of the situation in Bangladesh, with members expressing concerns about potential regional instability and its impact on U.S. interests. Representative Manion raised the possibility of a refugee crisis stemming from the unrest, while others questioned the wording of the resolution, suggesting it might be more effective to refer to "incidents" rather than "allegations."

Khan emphasized the urgency of the matter, noting that the interim government has failed to maintain law and order, leading to a deteriorating humanitarian situation. He warned that if the violence continues unchecked, Bangladesh could become a breeding ground for extremism, echoing fears of a broader regional conflict.

The committee's discussions underscored the importance of addressing human rights violations globally and the role of the U.S. in advocating for vulnerable populations. As the resolution moves forward, it aims to bring attention to the plight of religious minorities in Bangladesh and encourage a thorough investigation into the allegations of abuse.