Former US President Donald Trump in a Diwali message on Thursday condemned the atrocities faced by Hindus in Bangladesh, especially after the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government. He also promised to protect Hindu Americans from “anti-religious agendas” and fight for their freedom.

“I strongly condemn the barbaric violence against Hindus, Christians and other minorities who are being attacked and looted by mobs in Bangladesh, which remains in a total state of chaos. It never would have happened on my watch,” Trump wrote in a speech. message on X.

This is the first time Trump has spoken on the Bangladesh issue.

The US presidential candidate attacked his Democratic rival Kamala Harris, saying she and US President Joe Biden have “ignored” Hindus around the world and also in America.

“Kamala and Joe have ignored Hindus around the world and in America. They have been a disaster from Israel to Ukraine to our own southern border, but we will make America strong again and bring back peace through strength!” he said.

Trump, who extended his Diwali wishes to Indians, also promised to strengthen his country’s partnership with India and his “good friend” Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“Under my administration, we will also strengthen our great partnership with India and my good friend, Prime Minister Modi. Also Happy Diwali to everyone. I hope the Festival of Lights leads to the victory of good over evil,” he wrote.

I strongly condemn the barbaric violence against Hindus, Christians and other minorities who are being attacked and looted by mobs in Bangladesh, which remains in a state of total chaos.

It would never have happened under my watch. Kamala and Joe have ignored Hindus all over the world…

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 31, 2024

On August 5, former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country, ending her 15-year rule as student protests against her government escalated. Following this, the country’s Hindu minority groups have faced violence and vandalism against temples and their businesses. According to the Bangladesh National Hindu Grand Alliance, attacks and threats against the minority community have occurred at more than 200 locations in 48 districts. Hundreds of Hindus were also murdered between July and August this year.

The Hindu minority makes up about eight percent of the population in Bangladesh.