Online Desk-
MP Rupa Huq’s recent visit to Bangladesh has sparked significant controversy, with criticism from minority groups accusing her of ignoring the persecution faced by Hindus and other minorities in the country. The trip, which took place on 4 January 2025, has raised questions about her intent and impartiality.
During her visit, MP Huq met with Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Chief Advisor to the Interim Government of Bangladesh, as well as political and business leaders. She also attended a felicitation event organised by university students, where she interacted with student leaders. In an interview with BBC Bangla’s editor, MP Huq admitted that she had visited Bangladesh previously in May 2024 and acknowledged that “Hindus are in trouble.” However, she attributed these issues solely to political reasons and did not acknowledge the role of religious extremism in attacks on minorities.
After returning to the UK, MP Huq posted on her official X account (formerly Twitter):
“… Clearly as @bbcbangla has fact-checked, much misinformation about minorities…”
This statement has drawn backlash from the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council (BHBCUC) and the Bangladesh Youth Unity Council, who noted that MP Huq did not meet with community leaders, victims, or visit affected areas such as Sunamganj, Bagerhat and Chattogram. She also failed to meet Chinmoy Krishna Das, a community leader currently in custody on what the organisations claim are false charges. Critics argue that MP Huq’s public comments, which downplayed the plight of minorities, are inappropriate for someone of her stature.
An article by INSIGHT UK raised concerns about her interactions during the trip, particularly her discreet meetings with Mohammad Yunus and figures linked to Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh, an organisation with a history of links to Islamist extremism. The article also highlights her lack of engagement with affected minority communities, calling for an urgent, unbiased investigation to uncover the truth behind her visit.
This is not the first time MP Huq has faced criticism. In September 2022, she was suspended from the Labour Party after making racist comments about then-Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng, referring to him as “superficially Black.” Although she was later reinstated, her actions have raised concerns about her racial integrity and judgment.
Minority organisations, including the BHBCUC and the Bangladesh Youth Unity Council, have written open letters expressing deep concern over MP Huq’s actions and statements. They emphasise the need for an unbiased investigation to ensure justice for minority communities and to restore peace and democracy in Bangladesh.
The controversy surrounding MP Huq’s visit underscores the challenges faced by Bangladesh’s minorities, who continue to endure violence, discrimination, and systemic neglect. Observers and activists hope the situation will bring greater global awareness and pressure for action.
