A group of demonstrators affiliated with the Awami League and its associated organizations gathered outside the Blair House in Washington, D.C., on Thursday to voice their opposition to Bangladesh's Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus. This event coincided with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit to the United States.
The protesters shouted slogans such as "Step down Yunus, we want justice, we want Sheikh Hasina," along with accusations like "Minority killer" and "Hindu killer Yunus."
One participant expressed, "Dr. Yunus is an illegitimate figure who has seized power with the assistance of terrorists. According to our Constitution, Sheikh Hasina remains the Prime Minister of Bangladesh. They ousted her with the help of these terrorists. We demand elections, and the people will choose Sheikh Hasina once more."
Chants of "Step down, step down! Killer Yunus, killer Yunus" echoed through the crowd. Another protester stated, "We are here to support Bangladesh. We seek justice. The situation in Bangladesh is dire, with people being killed and a lack of security."
"Since August 5, when Dr. Yunus began representing a terrorist faction in Bangladesh unlawfully, our minority community—particularly Hindus—has suffered and faced violence. This group does not uphold the principles of a secular democracy. We demand fair justice... Donald Trump and Narendra Modi are present. We seek their attention so that people can exercise their democratic rights," another protester added.
In August of the previous year, a student-led uprising resulted in the removal of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina following weeks of protests and violence that claimed over 600 lives. Hasina, aged 76, sought refuge in India, leading to the establishment of an interim government headed by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus.
In December of last year, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri made a visit to Bangladesh, where both nations reaffirmed their commitment to fostering "good working relations" as neighboring countries.
In a recent briefing by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri addressed questions concerning the vandalism of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's residence in Dhaka. He stated, "You are aware of our recent statement regarding the unfortunate incidents at Sheikh Mujib's residence. We would like to emphasize that the safety of diplomatic premises falls under the responsibility of the host government, and I am confident that the Bangladeshi authorities are fully cognizant of their obligations in this matter."
Last week, a mob attacked Rahman's residence in Dhaka, as reported by the Dhaka Tribune. Images captured showed flames engulfing one of the floors of the building. The protesters, who were reportedly calling for a ban on the Awami League, breached the gate and caused extensive damage, according to the Dhaka Tribune, citing UNB. Many individuals ascended to the second floor, using hammers, crowbars, and wooden planks to deface portraits of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and to damage parts of the historic site. India condemned the vandalism of the residence of Bangladesh's founding leader, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, describing the incident as "regrettable."
In addressing media inquiries regarding the incident, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, "It is unfortunate that the historic home of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, which represents the courageous resistance of the Bangladeshi people against oppression and occupation, was destroyed on February 5, 2025." He further emphasized, "Those who appreciate the freedom struggle that has shaped Bangla identity and pride recognize the significance of this residence in the national consciousness of Bangladesh. This act of vandalism must be unequivocally condemned."
