[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 191 (Monday, November 1, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1172]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             CONDEMNING RELIGIOUS PERSECUTION IN BANGLADESH

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                           HON. PAUL A. GOSAR

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, November 1, 2021

  Mr. GOSAR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to support of victims of 
violent religious persecution in Bangladesh. I have been informed that 
currently, about 14 million people are facing religious persecution 
solely for their Hindu beliefs. There is documented numerous attacks on 
Hindu temples, businesses and homes. People have been brutally killed 
and raped due to their religious beliefs. l strongly condemn the 
violent and immoral actions of those who harm others simply because 
they have a different religion.
  Madam Speaker, the persecution of religious minorities will not end 
without strong action by the government, in this case Bangladesh. All 
governments are duty bound to protect their citizens and promote the 
freedom to worship. I call upon the government to make every effort to 
end the violence and protect religious minority populations within its 
borders. In order to protect its people, the government should restrict 
extremist groups that exert any violent influence over the country's 
political, social, legal, and religious affairs. Only then can peace 
and religious freedom be restored in Bangladesh.
  The United States and Bangladesh have a friendship with deep ties 
among and between its people. Like Bangladesh, the United States has 
religious minorities. To truly flourish and prosper, the rights of all 
people to be secure in their property and their lives must be ensured. 
I encourage the government of Bangladesh and offer the full support of 
the United States in helping it protect its religious minorities. May 
God bless both our nations.

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