India expressed deep concern on Saturday regarding attacks on Hindu temples and mandaps in Bangladesh during the ongoing Durga Puja festival. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) released a strong statement condemning the desecration of these sacred sites and urging the Bangladeshi government to protect its minority Hindu population.
The MEA specifically noted the attack on a Puja mandap in Tantibazar, Dhaka, and the theft at the revered Jeshoreshwari Kali temple in Satkhira. “These are deplorable events,” the statement read, highlighting a systematic pattern of vandalism against temples and deities observed in recent days. The ministry called for prompt action to ensure the safety of all minorities during the significant Hindu festival.
These comments came after a series of incidents, including theft and vandalism targeting Hindu religious sites in Bangladesh. On Friday night, a firebomb was reportedly thrown at the Tantibazar temple, causing panic among worshippers. Although no casualties were reported, media outlets indicated that five individuals sustained injuries during the ensuing chaos.
Amid the Durga Puja celebrations, a handcrafted golden mukut (crown) presented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi was stolen from a temple in Satkhira. In response to around 35 violent incidents this month, Bangladeshi police arrested 17 individuals. Inspector General of Police Md Moinul Islam assured that authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will take stringent action against those attempting to incite unrest.
The attacks have left Bangladesh’s Hindu community, which constitutes roughly 8% of the country’s 170 million population, feeling increasingly vulnerable. Dhaka resident Ankita Bhowmick voiced her frustration, stating, “We won’t need any security if everyone has the mentality that individuals can practice their religion according to their customs. There will be no fear.”