A report by Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has spotlighted the failures of Muhammad Yunus's interim government during its first 100 days, particularly regarding violence against religious and ethnic minorities and marginalized communities. The regime, supported by the military, is accused of allowing widespread unrest and failing to protect vulnerable groups, especially following the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on August 5.

Violence Against Minorities

The TIB report, citing data from the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council (Eykya Parishad), documented 2,010 incidents of communal violence between August 5 and 20, resulting in nine deaths among minority communities. The report also highlighted rising threats during the Durga Puja festival in October, with Hindus forced to celebrate under a climate of fear.

In one incident in Chattogram, 19 Hindus, including a monk, faced sedition charges over saffron flags, raising concerns about targeting those advocating for minority rights in the Muslim-majority country. Overall, minority groups reported at least 205 attacks, including five killings, in the immediate aftermath of Hasina’s departure, leading to protests by tens of thousands demanding government protection.

Cultural Suppression and Student Agitation

The report criticized the Yunus administration for its failure to investigate or act on allegations of violence against dissenters, indigenous groups, and religious minorities. At least 22 cultural events were disrupted, with attacks on art academies and bans on exhibitions and fairs.

The government also came under fire for yielding to student protests that often lacked political tolerance or direction, hindering proposed reforms.

International Outcry and Denial

The wave of violence against minorities drew criticism from global leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who urged Bangladesh to ensure minority safety. However, the interim government reportedly cracked down on gatherings celebrating Trump's victory rather than addressing the violence.

Muhammad Yunus dismissed the allegations as “exaggerated propaganda” intended to destabilize the country. However, the TIB report underscores the administration’s shortcomings in safeguarding vulnerable communities and holding perpetrators accountable, exposing a significant governance failure under the Yunus-led regime.