With the two-match Test series between India and Bangladesh poised 1-0 in favour of the hosts, the Men in Blue will take on their near neighbours, Bangladesh in the second Test, scheduled to be played between 27 September and 1 October at the Green Park in Kanpur. Following the completion of the Test series, the two nations will host a three-match T20I series, starting October 6.
Ahead of the T20I series, the Hindu Mahasabha has called for a bandh in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh on October 6, coinciding with India’s T20I series opener against Bangladesh. The organisation is opposing the game, citing ‘atrocity’ against Hindus in Bangladesh as the primary reason of the protest.
Hindu Mahasabha calls for Bharat bandh on October 6
The Hindu Mahasabha has continuously emphasised on Bharat bandh on October 6, the same day when the India versus Bangladesh T20I series is set to kick start. The Hindu Mahasabha national vice president, Jaiveer Bharadwaj has expressed that it is inappropriate to engage in sporting events with a nation where he has claimed Hindus continue to face persecution.
It is to be noted that earlier there were reports addressing that the second Test match between India and Bangladesh will be moved out of Kanpur, however there hasn’t been any official communication regarding the same. A BCCI source however declined the reports as he was quoted saying by Indian Today, “Yes, we are monitoring and with the concerned authorities as far as those threats are concerned but we have done everything to hold that match and stadium is ready to welcome our and visitors and said it's not going anywhere it will be in Kanpur but will keep monitoring the situation not only in Kanpur but also at the other venues”.
Litton Das opens up on Bangladesh unrest
Bangladesh has been under turmoil, marked with widespread protests and the ousting of the Awami League government. Amid these situations, an interim government has taken over and several reports of violence against Hindus emerged from a group of angry mobs.
However, Bangladesh cricketer, Litton Das had previously voiced his confidence hoping with things getting better, expressing his belief that Bangladesh is fundamentally a non-communal nation. Highlighting on the situation, Das said, “We must focus on moving forward together. The way my fellow citizens in Dinajpur, alongside others across the country, have united to protect one another is truly commendable, and I am grateful. I hope we can continue to stand together and reject all forms of violence, for this country belongs to all of us.”