India Raises Concerns About Attacks on Minorities in Bangladesh During Foreign Secretary Meeting

India has expressed concerns about attacks on minorities in Bangladesh during a meeting between the foreign secretaries of both countries. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri highlighted these issues, emphasising the safety and welfare of minorities. Bangladesh, however, dismissed these concerns as "misleading and false information," urging India not to interfere in its internal matters.

India-Bangladesh Diplomatic Discussions

This meeting marked the first high-level interaction since Sheikh Hasina's government fell on August 5. Misri discussed incidents involving cultural, religious, and diplomatic properties. He expressed hope for a constructive approach from Bangladesh to move relations forward positively. Meanwhile, Bangladesh's statement focused on "misinformation" in Indian media.

Bangladesh's Foreign Secretary Mohammad Jashim Uddin called for India's cooperation to stop the "negative campaign" in Indian media. He stated that all faiths in Bangladesh freely practice their rituals. Uddin also reminded India not to interfere in Bangladesh's internal affairs, noting that Bangladesh refrains from commenting on other countries' internal matters.

Focus on Bilateral Cooperation

Misri, the first senior Indian official to visit since the interim government took over, reiterated India's desire for a positive relationship with Bangladesh. He emphasised a people-centric approach, aiming for mutual benefits. Misri also met Interim Government Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain.

During these meetings, Misri underscored India's support for a democratic and stable Bangladesh. He reiterated India's willingness to build a relationship based on mutual trust and respect. Yunus described the relations between both countries as solid and close but expressed concerns over statements made by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from India.

Yunus called for cooperation in flood management and urged India to join efforts to revive SAARC. He stressed his government's commitment to protecting citizens' rights regardless of creed or ethnicity. Misri noted that India's development cooperation with Bangladesh aims to benefit its people through various engagements.

Addressing Border and Trade Issues

The discussions covered political, security, trade, and connectivity issues. Both sides agreed to enhance consultations under the BIMSTEC framework. Jashim Uddin prioritised "zero killing" at borders and requested India to resolve unsettled issues like the Teesta water-sharing deal and Ganges Water Treaty renewal.

Bangladesh also urged India to remove tariff barriers for an uninterrupted supply of essential commodities. Relations between the two countries have been strained since Hasina's departure amid protests in August. Recent violence against Hindus in Bangladesh has further worsened ties.

In September, Mohammad Touhid Hossain briefly met Indian counterpart S Jaishankar at a UN assembly meeting in New York. The Foreign Office Consultations aimed to sustain bilateral engagement and address concerns while advancing substantive issues in the relationship.

The recent political changes in Bangladesh have led to increased contact between leaders of both nations. India's Prime Minister was among the first world leaders to congratulate Chief Adviser Yunus upon taking office, highlighting the cordial relations between them.