Does Buddhist Teaching Contradict Rohingya Persecution in Bangladesh?
The suffering of the Rohingya people in Bangladesh has been a subject of considerable international attention and debate. Some argue that their mistreatment contradicts the teachings of Buddha, which emphasize compassion and non-harm. However, the presence of infiltrating extremist groups amongst the Muslim population of Bangladesh cannot be overlooked. Such groups have often utilized religious fanaticism to justify actions that contradict enlightened teachings.
The Role of Extremism in Persecution
Bangladeshi extremist Muslims, motivated by religious fanaticism, have played a significant role in initiating many of the incidents targeted at religious minorities. For instance, on 8 May 1986, the Bangladesh Army attacked Buddhist monasteries (Viharas) in Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) in response to perceived threats. This example highlights how religious extremism can lead to systematic attacks on places of worship and cultural heritage.
Systematic Religious Persecution in Bangladesh
The systematic destruction of religious sites and persecution of minorities in the CHT has been a recurring problem. Here are a few notable incidents:
Torching of a Buddhist Temple
On 27-31 May 2003, a group of Bangladesh Rifles (BDR) soldiers, under Major Rashid, destroyed a Buddhist temple at the peak of the Fali Tangya mountain. Not only did they destroy the temple but also the residence of Buddhist monks, and imposed restrictions on the local population, attempting to intimidate them. This incidence is just one of the many such instances where the Muslim majority has utilized their power to target Buddhist holy sites.
Interrogation and Intimidation
A more severe example involves the interrogation of Jumma people on 8 September 2002, conducted by the Bangladesh Army. These interrogations were incredibly brutal and relentless. The soldiers subjected Jumma villagers to physical and psychological torture, including sexual assault, in order to ‘verify’ their identities or claims of allegiance to specific groups. The Army even went so far as to force villagers to urinate and defecate in front of Buddhist images, a form of desecration that goes against the core principles of Buddhism.
Karma and Responsibility
It is crucial to recognize the principles of ‘karma’ as taught in Buddhism. According to Buddhism, actions have consequences and they guide one’s future existence. The destruction of religious sites and the persecution of minorities is an act of harm, which inevitably influences the karma of those responsible. The swift and harsh consequences of such actions, as dictated by the law, reflect the seek for justice and accountability.
The Need for Dialogue and Action
To address these issues, it is essential to initiate a dialogue between the community leaders, religious authorities, and the government. Efforts should be made to foster a peaceful coexistence and mutual respect, ensuring that the teachings of Buddhism and Islam can coexist harmoniously. This involves strong governmental action to arrest and punish those responsible for these abuses, as well as creating legal and societal frameworks that protect minority rights.
In summary, while the teachings of Buddhism emphasize compassion and non-violence, repeated instances of persecutions and desecration of religious sites in Bangladesh indicate a dire need for greater adherence to these principles. Addressing these concerns should be conducted with an equal focus on socio-political and legal reforms in the country.