Jaishankar Calls For Bangladesh To Protect Minorities Amid Rising Attacks On Hindus

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar recently addressed the Lok Sabha, highlighting the concerning incidents of violence against minorities, including Hindus, in Bangladesh.

He pinpointed the period following August 2024, after the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, as a time when these incidents notably increased.

During the Durga Puja festival, there were also reports of attacks on temples and puja mandaps. Jaishankar stressed the Indian government's serious concern regarding these developments and mentioned that India has communicated its worries to the Bangladeshi government.

In response to the turmoil, Jaishankar emphasized the responsibility of the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government in Bangladesh to safeguard all its citizens, including minority groups. He noted that the safety and freedom of every Bangladeshi citizen are primarily the concern of their government. This statement came amidst a backdrop of unrest following the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, a former priest of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in Bangladesh, on charges of sedition for allegedly placing a saffron flag above the national flag of Bangladesh during a rally in October.

The arrest of Das has sparked widespread protests and condemnation, not only within Bangladesh but also among political leaders in India. Many have called upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government to step in and address the issue. In a significant move, Sheikh Hasina, despite being ousted, has voiced her support for Das, asserting his unjust arrest and urging the current government to ensure the protection of religious and ethnic minorities who have been subjected to violence since her departure.

The High Commission of India in Dhaka is actively monitoring the situation, particularly concerning the treatment of minorities in Bangladesh. This diplomatic engagement reflects India's ongoing concern for the well-being of Hindus and other minority communities across its border. Amidst these developments, ISKCON also issued a statement clarifying its stance and support for Das, underlining the organization's commitment to advocating for his rights amidst the controversy surrounding his arrest.

In conclusion, the situation in Bangladesh concerning the treatment of minorities, especially Hindus, has captured the attention of the Indian government. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's statements in the Lok Sabha underscore India's proactive stance in addressing these issues with the Bangladeshi authorities. The international community, including leaders from both India and Bangladesh, continues to call for the protection of minority rights and the immediate resolution of conflicts that have led to unrest and violence.