The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has expressed deep concern over the recent surge in violence targeting minorities in Bangladesh and emphasized that they are closely monitoring the situation and its implications for minority communities in the region.
Emphasizing India’s deep concern over the attacks on minorities in Bangladesh, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated on Thursday that this concern arises amid reports of attacks on Hindu temples, homes, businesses, as well as targeted killings and violence against women.
“This issue was also addressed by the External Affairs Minister in his suo motu statement. We are monitoring the situation concerning the status of minorities. Reports indicate that various initiatives have been taken by groups and organizations to ensure the protection and well-being of minorities,” Jaiswal said.
During a media briefing on Wednesday, Jaiswal noted that, according to reports, some groups and organizations have undertaken various measures to protect minorities.
The Indian government has urged the Bangladeshi authorities to exercise restraint and safeguard the rights of all its citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs.
Jaiswal reiterated External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s statement, expressing hope for the early restoration of law and order in Bangladesh. “We welcome these steps but will naturally remain deeply concerned until law and order are visibly restored. It is the responsibility of every government to ensure the well-being of all its citizens. We hope for the early restoration of law and order in Bangladesh,” he said.
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The MEA Spokesperson stressed that this is in the interest of both the country itself and the larger region. Jaiswal added that the majority of students from Bangladesh have returned to India. “The External Affairs Minister had informed that there are 19,000 people in Bangladesh, of whom 9,000 are students. The majority of them have come back,” he said, noting that many still wish to return.
“There are many who want to come back, and our High Commission is assisting them. Several people have reached out to our High Commission and Assistant High Commission, and support will be rendered to Indian nationals,” he added.
Moreover, Jaiswal mentioned that the situation in Bangladesh is “still evolving,” and noted that the swearing-in of the interim government is scheduled for this evening. “Once these developments take place, I would like to emphasize that for the government and people of India, the interests of the people of Bangladesh are foremost in our minds,” he said.
(WITH INPUTS FROM ANI)
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