Connecting Global Threads of Faith Newsletter # 2 May
- Editorial Team GHTN
- Jun 1
- 4 min read
Connecting Global Threads of Faith
Editor’sNote…
From temple encroachments in Pakistan to debates on temple autonomy in India, this edition captures the trials and triumphs of Hindu communities worldwide. As heritage faces both assault and awakening, our stories this fortnight remind us that vigilance is the price of preservation.
May Newsletter – 2
(May 15 – May 31)
In an era of unprecedented global connectivity, the struggles and resilience of Hindus facing violence and persecution often go unrecognized. This fortnightly report brings these overlooked narratives to light by providing an unbiased and comprehensive selection of news agencies’ reports offering an overview of incidents impacting the Hindu community worldwide, while also celebrating Hindu heritage. Through this initiative, we seek to raise awareness and advocate for the protection of Hindu rights and religious freedom globally.
South-East Asia
Bangladesh
ATM Azharul Islam, a Jamaat-e-Islami leader, was sentenced to death in 2014 by Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal for genocide, rape, and mass murder of over 1,200 people in Rangpur during the 1971 Liberation War. The Supreme Court upheld the verdict in 2019. However, in May 2025, he was controversially acquitted by the same court, citing lack of sufficient evidence.
Pakistan
A 100-year-old Shiv temple near Tando Jam in Sindh, Pakistan, has been illegally encroached upon by land grabbers who have started construction around it, obstructing access routes. Hindu leader Shiva Kachhi has appealed to the government to halt the encroachment and protect the temple and nearby cremation site, both of which hold religious and historical significance for the local Hindu community.
As Balochistan's independence movement gains traction, ancient Hindu temples like Hinglaj Mata and Katas Raj are regaining attention, symbolizing deep civilizational ties with India. Amid turmoil, these sacred sites stand as silent witnesses to the Hindu heritage that predates Pakistan’s formation and resists its erasure.
India
In connection with the November 2023 grenade attack on a temple in Surankote, Poonch, Jammu & Kashmir Police’s SIA has chargesheeted two individuals, including one Pakistan-based Hizbul Mujahideen operative. The incident, orchestrated from across the border, reflects an ongoing terror campaign aimed at destabilizing the region and terrorizing Hindus. Given Poonch's history—including the 1947 massacres and the 1990s Hindu genocide and expulsion—this attack fits into a continued pattern of targeting Hindu religious and cultural identity in Jammu & Kashmir.
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam will deploy anti-drone technology to protect the sanctity and security of the Sri Venkateswara temple amid rising aerial threats. The move aligns with Agama Shastra principles and devotee sentiments, while broader initiatives include environmental preservation and expanded healthcare services.
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam has approved the transfer or voluntary retirement of non-Hindu employees to uphold the religious sanctity of its institutions. The move follows disciplinary action against staff involved in non-Hindu religious activities while serving in temple-run establishments.
Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot has referred the Bill, which mandates using 10% of the gross income from wealthy Hindu temples for a common religious fund, to the President for assent due to constitutional concerns about religious autonomy. The Bill, passed amid opposition protests, is under legal scrutiny regarding its impact on the sacred status of temples under Articles 14, 25, and 26 of the Constitution.
The Supreme Court has allowed the Uttar Pradesh government to use Banke Bihari temple’s fixed deposits to acquire 5 acres for a corridor project, but mandated the land be registered in the deity’s name. Overruling the High Court, the bench emphasized that temple funds can be used only if ownership remains with the deity or trust.
The Supreme Court ruled that the Hare Krishna temple in Bengaluru legally belongs to ISKCON Bangalore, settling a long-standing dispute with ISKCON Mumbai. The verdict overturned a Karnataka High Court decision and upheld ISKCON Bangalore’s independent management and ownership of the temple.
Nagshankar Temple in Assam’s Biswanath district has been declared a model temple for turtle conservation, recognizing its successful efforts in protecting 13 freshwater turtle species. Rooted in Hindu belief that turtles are incarnations of Lord Vishnu, the temple's conservation model blends tradition with grassroots ecological action.
TTD is considering AI-enabled facial recognition cameras at Tirumala to streamline darshan, manage crowds, and prevent impersonation. The system aims to enhance pilgrim experience by ensuring faster, secure, and well-organized temple services.
Africa
South Africa
ISKCON faced criticism for conducting an unscheduled Rath Yatra in Sandton, South Africa, deviating from traditional timings set by scriptures. Devotees and religious authorities expressed concern over repeated such events abroad, calling it disrespectful to tradition.
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