News Brief
'Cannot Dismiss As Media Exaggerations': MEA Condemns Violence Against Hindus In Bangladesh, Seeks Action From Yunus Government
The Hindu population in Bangladesh has historically endured repeated waves of persecution
India on Friday (29 November) voiced deep concerns over the escalating threats and targeted attacks primarily against Hindus and other minority communities in Bangladesh.
Addressing the situation, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated India's consistent position on safeguarding the rights and safety of religious minorities, particularly in light of recent communal tensions.
"India has consistently and strongly raised with the Bangladesh government the threats and targeted attacks on Hindus and other minorities. The interim government must live up to its responsibility of protecting all minorities. We are concerned about the surge of extremist rhetoric. Increasing incidents of violence and provocation cannot be dismissed merely as media exaggerations. We call upon Bangladesh to take steps for the protection of minorities," Jaiswal stated.
Meanwhile, the MEA clarified that bilateral trade between the two nations has not been impacted by these developments.
"We have noted with deep concern the arrest and denial of bail to Chinmoy Krishna Das. This incident follows multiple attacks on Hindus and other minorities by extremist elements in Bangladesh. We urge Bangladesh authorities to ensure the safety and security of Hindus and all minorities, including their right to peaceful assembly and expression," the MEA said in its Tuesday statement.
Meanwhile, a magistrate court denied bail to the Hindu leader and ordered his detention. Tensions escalated as his supporters blocked the police van transporting him to jail.
The attacks coincide with political unrest following the departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August and the formation of an interim government under Muhammad Yunus, who dismissed claims of violence as exaggerated. However, the safety of minorities remains a pressing issue, with Hindus, comprising 7.96 per cent of Bangladesh’s population, increasingly vulnerable amid rising communal tensions and attacks.
