Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus, awarded in 2006, is facing increasing scrutiny over his perceived inaction regarding the persecution of the Hindu minority in Bangladesh. Dr. Abraham Mathai, Chairman of the Harmony Foundation—an NGO based in Mumbai—has voiced disappointment in Yunus’ failure to uphold the values that earned him international recognition.
Dr. Mathai, also a former Vice-Chairman of the Minorities Commission, has urged the global community to launch a campaign for Yunus to be stripped of his Nobel Prize, accusing him of violating principles of peace and altruism. He pointed out that Yunus’ silence amidst threats from radical Islamist groups against the Hindu minority, particularly concerning the celebration of Durga Puja, undermines his credibility as a peace advocate.
“How can someone of such international stature remain noncommittal in such a grave situation, where civil and human rights are at risk?” Dr. Mathai questioned. He suggested that Yunus’ lack of decisive action might be interpreted as tacit approval of extremist actions.
This call for revocation follows protests at the United Nations headquarters in New York, where demonstrators condemned Yunus’ failure to protect the rights of Bangladesh’s Hindu community. Dr. Mathai warned that continued silence from Yunus could tarnish the reputation of the Nobel Peace Prize, allowing critics to question the legitimacy of the award.
In light of escalating tensions and Yunus’ perceived inaction, Dr. Mathai has urged the Swedish Academy to reconsider his Nobel Peace Prize to protect the institution from potential dishonor and disrepute.
