Anger over the killing of a Hindu man in Bangladesh triggered a tense protest outside the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi on Tuesday. Demonstrators gathered to demand justice and raise concerns over the safety of religious minorities in the neighbouring country.
The protest followed the killing of Dipu Chandra Das, a young factory worker from Mymensingh, whose death sparked outrage across communities. As emotions ran high, the demonstration escalated into clashes with police, forcing authorities to step in to restore order.
Barricades Broken as Crowd Pushes Forward
Security forces had tightened arrangements around the High Commission well in advance. Police and paramilitary personnel erected three layers of barricades to prevent any breach.
Despite the precautions, a large group of protesters pushed forward and broke through at least two barricade lines. The situation quickly turned chaotic as demonstrators surged toward the restricted zone.
To control the swelling crowd, police resorted to a lathi-charge, dispersing protesters and pushing them away from the diplomatic compound. Officers later restored the barricades and secured the area.
Protesters Raise Slogans, Demand Justice
The demonstration was led by Hindu organisations that accused Bangladeshi authorities of failing to protect minorities. Protesters shouted slogans and carried placards seeking justice for Dipu Das.
Several voices from the crowd reflected deep fear and anger.
“I’ll also be a Dipu, and you’ll also be a Dipu if we don’t raise our voice today,” one protestor said.
Another protestor claimed, “Hindus are being killed (in Bangladesh). This (India) is the land of Ram and Krishna. We don’t kill anyone, but our sisters and daughters are raped there.”
Effigies of Bangladesh’s interim leadership were also set on fire during the protest, further escalating tensions.
Police Detentions and Crowd Control Measures
Police detained several protesters to clear the area and prevent further escalation. Authorities said they acted to maintain law and order and protect the diplomatic mission.
Officials confirmed that security forces managed to regain full control of the situation within a short time. No major injuries were reported, but traffic restrictions remained in place around the area for several hours.
Why the Protest Erupted
The protest followed the killing of Dipu Chandra Das, a 25-year-old garment factory worker, in Bangladesh’s Mymensingh district. He was allegedly lynched by a mob over accusations of blasphemy. His body was later set on fire.
The incident triggered widespread condemnation. Bangladeshi authorities have arrested at least 12 people in connection with the case, but the killing has continued to draw sharp reactions across borders.
Diplomatic Tensions Rise
Earlier in the day, Bangladesh raised concerns over protests and vandalism targeting its diplomatic facilities in India. Dhaka summoned India’s envoy to convey its objections.
Bangladesh issued a strong statement saying, “Bangladesh condemns such acts of premeditated violence or intimidation against diplomatic establishments, which not only endanger the safety of diplomatic personnel but also undermine the principles of mutual respect and values of peace and tolerance.”
India, however, dismissed claims of a serious security breach. Officials said the New Delhi protest was brief and did not pose a threat to diplomatic staff.
The protest highlights growing concern over minority safety in Bangladesh and rising public pressure in India. Authorities on both sides continue to monitor developments closely as diplomatic engagement continues.