Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, reported alarming numbers of attacks on minorities in neighboring countries. He stated that 2,200 cases of violence against Hindus and other minorities occurred in Bangladesh by December 8, 2024. Additionally, Pakistan recorded 112 such cases by October 2024.
India’s Immediate Response
India responded swiftly to these reports. Singh declared, “The government has taken serious note of these incidents and shared its concerns with the Government of Bangladesh.” He also noted that no cases were reported in other neighboring countries.
India has urged Bangladesh to protect its minority communities. Singh emphasized, “India expects that the Government of Bangladesh will take all necessary measures to ensure the safety and welfare of Hindus and other minorities.” The High Commission of India in Dhaka continues to monitor the situation closely.
High-Level Talks Address Concerns
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri visited Dhaka on December 9. He met Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Advisor Md Touhid Hossain to discuss the issue. Misri raised concerns about attacks on minorities and cultural sites. He said, “We 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.”
Arrests Highlight Tensions
Meanwhile, Bangladeshi police arrested a suspect for vandalizing Hindu idols on Saturday. Abul Khair, Officer-in-Charge of Haluaghat Police Station, confirmed the arrest. He stated, “We have arrested one person early today for vandalizing Hindu idols in the Shakuair area.”
Political Unrest Worsens the Situation
Bangladesh’s political unrest has worsened minority issues. Protests erupted in June 2024 over demands to reform the quota system for government jobs. The demonstrations escalated into widespread violence, resulting in over 600 deaths.
Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India after being ousted. An interim government led by Yunus replaced her. The unrest has left minorities vulnerable, with frequent attacks on Hindu temples and cultural sites reported.
Global Protests Over ISKCON Priest’s Arrest
On November 25, Bangladeshi authorities arrested Chinmoy Krishna Das, a former ISKCON priest, at Dhaka Airport. They charged him with sedition, sparking global protests. This incident further highlighted the challenges faced by minorities in the country.
India Demands Action
India has demanded immediate action to protect minorities. Its leadership continues to pressure Bangladesh to resolve these issues. However, with political instability persisting, ensuring safety for all remains a significant challenge.
