Expressing concern over the rising incidents of extremist rhetoric and violence, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated on Friday that it has consistently raised the issue of targeted attacks on Hindus and other minorities with the Bangladesh government.
During a weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal called on Bangladesh’s interim government to ensure the protection of minorities.
“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. We are concerned about the surge of extremist rhetoric, increasing incidents of violence, and provocation. These developments cannot be dismissed only as media exaggerations,” Jaiswal said.
The MEA urged Bangladesh to take effective steps to safeguard minority communities and ensure their interests are protected.
On ISKCON and Legal Proceedings
Addressing the situation surrounding the arrest of Hindu spiritual leader Chinmoy Krishna Das, Jaiswal reaffirmed India’s position, emphasizing the importance of fair judicial processes.
“We see ISKCON as a globally well-regarded organisation with a strong record of social service. As far as the arrest of Chinmoy Das is concerned, we hope and expect that these legal processes will be dealt with in a fair, just, and transparent manner, ensuring full respect for the legal rights of the individuals involved,” Jaiswal stated.
Chinmoy Krishna Das is currently in custody after a Chittagong court denied him bail on Tuesday. He faces sedition charges for allegedly hoisting a saffron flag above Bangladesh’s national flag in Chittagong on October 25.
Protests and Tensions
Tensions have escalated following the November 27 killing of a lawyer during clashes between police and alleged followers of Chinmoy Krishna Das at the Chattogram Court Building. While ISKCON’s Bangladesh unit has denied any involvement in the incident, protests against the organization continue.
ISKCON expressed solidarity with Das through a post on X, stating:
“ISKCON, Inc. stands with Chinmoy Krishna Das. Our prayers to Lord Krishna for the protection of all these devotees.”
India-Bangladesh Trade Relations
Jaiswal also addressed ongoing trade relations between the two countries, confirming that the supply of commodities between India and Bangladesh remains uninterrupted.
“The supply of commodities from India to Bangladesh continues. And likewise, the trade between Bangladesh and India continues in both directions,” he said.
The situation remains tense as India closely monitors developments and continues its dialogue with the Bangladesh government to address concerns over minority rights and communal harmony.