Dhaka – Tarique Rahman, recently sworn in as Prime Minister of Bangladesh, has pledged to prioritize the safety and rights of the nation’s minority communities. The commitment came during his first televised address on Wednesday, following a landslide victory for his Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in the February 12th general election. Rahman’s vow addresses longstanding concerns about the vulnerability of religious minorities in Bangladesh, particularly Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians, and follows accusations leveled against the previous interim administration regarding their protection.
Rahman’s ascent to power marks a significant shift in Bangladeshi politics, succeeding Muhammad Yunus, who served as Chief Adviser during the interim period. The BNP secured a two-thirds majority in the polls, held after a period of unrest in 2024 that led to the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The new prime minister emphasized a vision of inclusivity, stating, “We want to turn this country into a safe land for every citizen. Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Christians – regardless of party, opinion, religion, or ethnicity – whether living in the hills or the plains, this country belongs to all of us.”
Concerns Over Previous Administration’s Response to Attacks
The promise of protection for minorities comes amid criticism of the previous interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus. That government faced accusations of failing to adequately address a surge in attacks targeting Hindus and other religious minorities. These concerns prompted a diplomatic response from neighboring India, which in December 2025 urged Bangladesh to ensure the safety of its minority populations following the killing of a political activist. In January 2026, India further demonstrated its concern by withdrawing the families of its diplomats stationed in Bangladesh and increasing security measures at diplomatic missions, citing reported attacks on minority groups.
Reports of Violence and Communal Attacks
Recent reports paint a concerning picture of the situation on the ground. The rights group Manabadhikar Shongskriti Foundation (MSF) reported 21 incidents of lynching and 28 incidents of mob beatings in Bangladesh during January 2026 alone, according to a report by PTI. The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council documented an even broader pattern of violence, reporting 522 communal attacks between June 2025 and January 2026, resulting in the deaths of 116 people from minority faiths, the majority of whom were Hindus.
Rahman’s Pledge of Equal Rights
In his address, Rahman sought to reassure all citizens, regardless of their political affiliation or religious beliefs. “Whether you voted for BNP, or did not vote for BNP, or did not vote at all – everyone has equal rights over this government… As a Bangladeshi, every one of us has equal rights in this country, in this state,” he stated. This message aims to address the deep-seated anxieties within minority communities and foster a sense of belonging and security.
International Scrutiny and Diplomatic Responses
The situation in Bangladesh has drawn international attention, with concerns raised about the protection of human rights and religious freedom. The withdrawal of diplomats’ families by India underscores the gravity of the situation and the perceived risks to foreign nationals and minority communities. The international community will likely be watching closely to see how Rahman’s administration implements its pledge to protect all citizens and address the root causes of communal violence.
Tarique Rahman was sworn in as Prime Minister on February 17, 2026, at a ceremony held at the National Parliament in Dhaka, as confirmed by the Associated Press.
Looking Ahead
The coming months will be crucial in determining whether Rahman’s commitment to protecting minorities translates into concrete action. Key steps will include strengthening law enforcement, ensuring accountability for perpetrators of violence, and promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding. The government’s ability to address these challenges will be a defining factor in its success and will have a profound impact on the future of Bangladesh. The next major development to watch for will be the announcement of Rahman’s full cabinet and the unveiling of specific policies aimed at safeguarding the rights of all citizens.
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