Violence Against Minorities in Bangladesh Cannot Be Ignored, Says MEA
New Delhi(The Uttam Hindu): India has once again expressed serious concerns over the persecution of minorities in Bangladesh, urging the interim government under Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus to take decisive action against those responsible for violence and atrocities. Last week, during a meeting with Yunus on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the security and safety of minorities in Bangladesh, particularly Hindus. The issue of growing violence against minorities was raised, with India emphasizing the need for strong measures against the perpetrators.
"On the question of minorities, we raised the issue of violence and the kind of atrocities that have been taking place against them. We have repeatedly raised these concerns, including during our meeting in Bangkok, and stressed that this violence cannot simply be ignored or dismissed as political or media-driven. We expect the Bangladesh government to take strong action against those responsible," said Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), at a media briefing in New Delhi. The meeting in Bangkok marked the first in-person interaction between Prime Minister Modi and Yunus since the fall of the Awami League government led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the formation of the interim government under Yunus' leadership last August.
During the discussions, Prime Minister Modi urged against any rhetoric that could destabilize relations, emphasizing that all mutual issues should continue to be addressed through constructive dialogue. "India believes in a people-centric approach to its relationship with Bangladesh, and we hope to continue resolving our issues through bilateral discussions," said Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri after the BIMSTEC Summit. Prime Minister Modi reiterated India's support for a peaceful, stable, and inclusive Bangladesh, stressing that the safety and security of minorities, including Hindus, must be ensured. He urged the Bangladesh government to thoroughly investigate all cases of atrocities against minorities.
Further, Modi underscored India's desire for a positive, pragmatic relationship with Bangladesh and noted that bilateral cooperation has brought tangible benefits to both countries. The Prime Minister also called for the strict enforcement of border security laws, especially to prevent illegal crossings, and advocated for continued dialogue to strengthen relations between the two nations.
