By Abdel Kader
NEW YORK: Members of the Patriots of Bangladesh Human Rights Initiative staged a protest outside the Indian Consulate in New York on Friday, voicing their opposition to what they described as growing Indian dominance and demanding justice for the killing of Sharif Osman Haider.
The demonstration coincided with the congregational Friday prayers, during which participants also performed the Jumma prayer, blending religious observance with civic activism. The Friday sermon and prayers were led by Faisal Ahmad Jalali, a writer and researcher known for his advocacy on human rights issues.
Several prominent speakers addressed the gathering, highlighting concerns over the treatment of minorities in India and calling for international attention to human rights violations. Among them were BAAG Secretary Shahana Masum, Sharif Osman Haider of the Azadi Kashmir organization, and Altaf Mahmud Qasem, convener of the New Kashmir Organization.
Activists Jacob Milton, Madam Mira, Professor Shawkat Ali, and Dr Abu Zafar Mahmud also took the podium, emphasizing the need for accountability and justice. Key members of the Patriots of Bangladesh, including Abdul Kader, Lion Sohel Ahmed, Mushior Liton, Dipon Gazi, Mamun Mia, Monir Hossain, Adnan Mia, Juwel Zakir, and Russel Shawkat, were actively involved in organizing and addressing the protest.
The event also drew participation from Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, head of the Khalistan community’s “Sikhs for Justice” group, signaling a broader coalition of diaspora communities united around concerns for minority rights. The protest reflected mounting unease among South Asian diaspora groups regarding human rights conditions in the region, particularly the treatment of minorities in India.
Organizers stressed the urgency of international intervention, calling on global institutions to uphold justice, safeguard vulnerable communities, and ensure that violations such as the killing of Sharif Osman Haider are thoroughly investigated and addressed.
