Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has stated that the Indian High Commission in Dhaka is closely monitoring the situation concerning minorities in Bangladesh.
Speaking at the Lok Sabha on Friday in response to five specific questions, Jaishankar emphasized that the primary responsibility for ensuring the protection of life and liberty for all citizens, including minorities, rests with the Bangladeshi government.
The Lok Sabha, India's lower house of Parliament, consists of public representatives elected by direct vote.
Jaishankar said that the Indian government has observed multiple reports of violence targeting Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. These incidents include attacks on homes, businesses, temples, and other religious establishments, particularly in August 2024.
"We have taken a serious note of these incidents and conveyed our concerns to the government of Bangladesh," Jaishankar said.
The minister highlighted reports of attacks during the recent Durga Puja festival, including at a Puja mandap in Tantibazar, Dhaka, and theft at the Jashoreshwari Kali Temple in Satkhira.
He added that the government of Bangladesh had responded to these incidents by deploying special security measures, including the Army and the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), to ensure peaceful celebrations during Durga Puja.
Jaishankar reiterated that the Indian government remains attentive to the situation and is actively engaging with Bangladesh to address the concerns surrounding minority safety.
