Dhaka: Workers have begun to dismantle the statue of a Greek goddess after an outcry from Islamist factions in Bangladesh.
The sculpture of Themis- goddess of justice- wearing a “sari” was less than six months old. The statue was erected in the Supreme Court complex.
Islamist groups have demanded its removal by Friday.
The groups claimed that religious sentiments of Muslims were hurt and mass protests were held in the capital.
PM Sheikh Hasina agreed to its removal, but secular groups opposed it.
Workers have arrived at the venue are removing the sculpture.
The statue is being removed to maintain peace, said its creator Mrinal Haque.
The removal of the statue reflects that the tensions between religious conservative groups and liberals are rising in Bangladesh.
Protesters have asserted that the sculpture amounts to idolatry.