In the wake of recent incidents of violence against Hindus in Bangladesh, S. Jaishankar, Indian External Affairs Minister, has pointed out the necessity for Dhaka to uphold its commitment to safeguarding minorities.
This pertains to the escalation of communal tension seen in Chittagong, where a few days earlier an attack on a temple happened, and other accounts of discrimination against the Hindu community came forth.
India’s Diplomatic Stand
In a diplomatic briefing, Jaishankar underscored India’s unwavering support for the protection of minorities in South Asia.
He reiterated the fact that the safety and security of minority communities is basic to any bilateral relationship.
The Ministry of External Affairs(MEA) gave a voice, in its communications to Dhaka, for the perpetrators to be brought to justice very soon.
The Indian government, reiterating attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh to be a serious concern, underlined the cultural bonds and common heritage shared between the two countries.
Jaishankar stated that it is crucial for both countries to bring cooperation into maintaining communal harmony.
The Situation in Chittagong
Reports from Chittagong this week hinted at the vandalization and desecration of a sacred temple belonging to the Hindu minorities.
This event has only added sadness to the minority Hindu population in Bangladesh, which constitutes about 8% of the total population.
Various activist groups have blamed authorities in Bangladesh for failing to secure enough protection, as opposition leaders in India, like Suvendu Adhikari, advocate policies such as the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) to protect persecuted minorities.
The ministry for international affairs of Bangladesh insists that the government has taken all measures to deal with the minorities and that measures are being taken to investigate and address the incidents.
Sheikh Hasina’s administration has been criticized before for its handling of religious violence, especially during the festive season, which often seem to arise out of communal tensions.
Biggest attacks instigate the call for CAA
These vicious attacks were used by BJP in India to reinforce the need for the CAA, which aims to provide citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from the bordering countries.
According to BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, “The attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh only reinforce the relevance of the CAA to render legality to those fleeing religious persecution.”
The same intrusions into the history of minorities in Bangladesh prevailed recently, whereas the targeting of the Hindu population arose during local clashes on a few occasions.
As per reported happenings, attacks upon Hindus rose in years gone by, while worldwide organizations urged Dhaka to adopt stringent measures to keep these prerogatives at bay.
India continues to keep a close watch on developments, with Jaishankar reiterating that protecting minorities is at the heart of regional peace and stability.
The two countries will certainly engage in further talks on preventing the recurrence of such incidents and strengthening bilateral ties.
