External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has firmly asserted that the interim government of Bangladesh, led by Muhammad Yunus, bears the primary responsibility for ensuring the safety of all citizens, particularly minorities such as Hindus. This statement comes amid escalating violence against religious minorities in Bangladesh, which has been reported to have intensified since the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024.
During a session in the Lok Sabha, Jaishankar highlighted several alarming incidents, including attacks on Hindu temples and puja mandaps during the recent Durga Puja festival. He noted that these incidents have raised significant concerns within the Indian government, prompting diplomatic communications with Bangladesh to address the situation. “The primary responsibility for the protection of life and liberty of all citizens of Bangladesh, including minorities, rests with the Government of Bangladesh,” Jaishankar emphasized.
The minister’s remarks were timely, as they coincided with ongoing unrest in Bangladesh following the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, a Hindu leader associated with ISKCON. His arrest on sedition charges has sparked protests among the Hindu community, who demand better legal protections and a dedicated ministry for minority affairs. Former Prime Minister Hasina has also condemned his arrest, calling it unjust and urging for his immediate release.
Reports indicate that since Hasina’s departure from power, there have been over 200 attacks on Hindus across approximately 50 districts in Bangladesh. These incidents include vandalism of places of worship and violence against individuals from minority communities. The Indian High Commission in Dhaka is closely monitoring these developments and has expressed its concerns to Bangladeshi authorities.
Jaishankar’s statements reflect India’s commitment to advocating for the rights and safety of minorities in neighboring countries, reinforcing the need for Bangladesh to uphold its obligations to protect all its citizens amidst rising tensions.
