India Expects Bangladesh To Act In Its Own Interest To Protect Minorities: Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday (13 December) expressed concern over the treatment of minorities in Bangladesh and emphasised India’s expectation that Dhaka will ensure their safety.

Highlighting recent incidents of attacks on minorities in the Lok Sabha during the question hour, Jaishankar stated, “We have drawn their attention to our concerns. Recently the foreign secretary visited Dhaka. This subject came up in his meetings. And it is our expectation that in its own interests, Bangladesh will take action for the safety of minorities.”

The minister also expressed hope that the new dispensation in Bangladesh will settle down to a stable, mutually beneficial relationship with India. 

Speaking on India’s development initiatives in Bangladesh, Jaishankar highlighted the success of projects under the "Neighbourhood First" policy.

He said that almost every neighbouring country, except for Pakistan and China, has witnessed important development projects by India, and Bangladesh is no exception.

Jaishankar's remarks comes days after foreign secretary Vikram Misri visited Dhaka on 9 Decemeber and reportedly conveyed New Delhi’s concerns over the security of Hindus and other minorities in the country.

“I emphasised that India desires a positive, constructive and mutually beneficial relationship with Bangladesh...I have underlined today India’s desire to work closely with the interim government of Bangladesh. At the same time, we also had the opportunity to discuss certain recent developments and issues, and I conveyed our concerns, including those related to the safety and welfare of minorities,” Misri said in a media briefing.

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