Jaishankar Urges Bangladesh to Ensure Minority Safety Amid Rising Concerns

Jaishankar urges Bangladesh to protect minorities, highlights regional concerns, and reiterates India’s stance on terrorism

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Friday stressed that Bangladesh’s government must ensure the safety and protection of its minorities, especially Hindus. Speaking in the Lok Sabha during Question Hour, he expressed concern over recent incidents of violence targeting minorities in the neighboring country.

His remarks follow reports of communal violence in Bangladesh, including a 17-year-old Hindu girl who fled to India, claiming she was being targeted for being an ISKCON devotee. Another student from Bangladesh reportedly swam across a river to enter India illegally to escape persecution.

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Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, admitted to 88 cases of communal violence against minorities since the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August. Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam stated that 70 individuals have been arrested in connection with these attacks. This acknowledgment came a day after Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri raised concerns over the treatment of minorities in Bangladesh during meetings with Bangladeshi officials.

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Jaishankar emphasized that protecting minorities is in Bangladesh’s best interest and critical for maintaining good relations with India. He stated, “The treatment of minorities in Bangladesh is a matter of concern, and we expect the ruling dispensation to take steps to ensure their safety.”

In the same parliamentary session, Jaishankar also addressed India’s Neighbourhood First Policy, highlighting India’s successful collaborations with its neighboring countries, excluding Pakistan and China. He noted that development projects, trade, and exchanges with these nations demonstrate strong regional partnerships.

Regarding Pakistan, Jaishankar reiterated India’s position that better relations are only possible if Pakistan takes decisive steps to eliminate terrorism. “For India to have good relations with Pakistan, they need to show they are free of terrorists,” he said.

The Minister’s statements underline India’s focus on regional stability, minority rights, and the importance of maintaining harmony in its neighboring countries. These remarks come at a critical time, with rising communal tensions in Bangladesh drawing international attention.

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