India has decided to bolster security for the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi and its other diplomatic premises across the country following a breach at the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala earlier on Monday.
In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed regret over the incident, stating:
“The breach of premises at the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala is deeply regrettable. Diplomatic and consular properties should not be targeted under any circumstances.”
The MEA further assured action, saying:
“Government is taking action to step up security arrangements for the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi and their Deputy/Assistant High Commissions in the country.”
India’s Concern Over Minorities in Bangladesh
The incident comes amidst heightened concerns about the safety of minorities in Bangladesh. Last week, during the weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal urged Bangladesh’s interim government to ensure the protection of minorities amidst rising extremist rhetoric and violence.
“India has consistently and strongly raised with the Bangladesh government the threats and targeted attacks on Hindus and other minorities. The interim government must live up to its responsibility of protecting all minorities,” Jaiswal said.
Highlighting the troubling developments, he added:
“We are concerned about the surge of extremist rhetoric, and increasing incidents of violence and provocation. These developments cannot be dismissed only as media exaggerations. We once again call upon Bangladesh to take all steps for the protection of minorities and safeguarding their interests.”
Rising Violence Against Minorities in Bangladesh
Bangladesh has witnessed a surge in violent incidents targeting Hindus and other minority communities. Temples have been attacked, and the arrest of former priest Chinmoy Krishna Das over alleged sedition charges has further fueled tensions. The arrest stemmed from accusations of hoisting a saffron flag above Bangladesh’s national flag in Chittagong on October 25.
The situation escalated on November 27, when clashes between police and alleged followers of Das at the Chattogram Court Building resulted in the death of a lawyer.