The Shankaracharya of Puri, Nischalananda Saraswati Maharaj, has issued a strong statement regarding the reported persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh.
He warned the Bangladeshi administration about the potential consequences of such actions, cautioning against the mistreatment of minorities.
“Bangladesh is showing shortsightedness. If Hindus are persecuted or driven out from there, what will happen to Muslims in places where they are a minority?” he questioned, as quoted by India Today.
The spiritual leader reminded Bangladesh of its shared history and cultural ties with India, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar.
He said that many Muslims in Bengal have ancestors who were Hindus and converted under various circumstances.
“Muslims must recognize that those whose ancestors were Hindus are their own kin,” he said.
The Shankaracharya called for mutual respect and solidarity between communities in Bangladesh.
“The ancestors of Hindus, who steadfastly refused to compromise their faith even in the face of adversity, deserve our respect,” he said.
He said that Muslims must “avoid hostility toward Hindus” and the animosity could lead to severe repercussions.
“I urge Muslims to respect Hindus, stand by them, and avoid antagonizing them, lest they suffer dire consequences,” he added.
