WATCH | India's Foreign Secretary Misri Highlights Minority Safety Concerns During Bangladesh Visit

During a significant diplomatic visit to Bangladesh, India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met with Bangladesh's Foreign Adviser Mohammad Touhid Hossain on Monday, raising several key concerns, including the safety and welfare of minorities in the country.

This visit marks the first high-level diplomatic exchange since Sheikh Hasina's ousting as Prime Minister in August and the formation of the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, as reported by ANI.

In a media briefing after the meeting, Misri highlighted the growing concerns regarding the safety of religious and cultural minorities in Bangladesh, especially in light of recent violent incidents. "We discussed recent developments, and I conveyed our concerns, particularly regarding the safety and welfare of minorities," Misri stated. He specifically addressed the rise in attacks on cultural and religious properties, emphasizing that such incidents were a matter of concern for India.

Misri further reiterated India’s desire for a "positive, constructive, and mutually beneficial relationship" with Bangladesh, underscoring India's commitment to working closely with the interim government. “We aim to build on a strong bilateral relationship while addressing sensitive issues,” Misri said.

The discussions between Misri and Hossain also provided both countries an opportunity to assess their current ties. Misri expressed appreciation for the candid and constructive exchanges, which focused not only on bilateral relations but also on regional security and other pressing issues.

The meeting comes at a time when tensions have escalated in Bangladesh due to attacks on Hindus and other minority communities, with extremist elements carrying out acts of violence. Reports of arson, looting, and vandalism, including desecration of religious temples and deities, have raised alarm.

One notable incident was the arrest of priest Chinmoy Krishna Das in Chittagong on October 25, which led to widespread protests. India had previously expressed concern over the arrest and the denial of bail to Krishna Das, who is also a prominent spokesperson for the Bangladesh Sammilit Sanatan Jagran Jote, as reported by Hindustan Times.

Misri's visit and his discussions with Bangladeshi officials underline the importance of maintaining dialogue between the two countries, especially on issues affecting the safety of minority communities. The visit also reflects India's commitment to ensuring that its concerns about the treatment of minorities are heard on the international stage, while fostering strong diplomatic relations with Bangladesh.