PM Modi asserts need to protect minority community in Bangladesh

New Delhi, Aug 16: Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged with Prof Mohammad Yunus, the Chief Adviser of the Interim Government of Bangladesh, reaffirming India’s unwavering support for a democratic, stable, peaceful, and progressive Bangladesh.

The telephone call underscored India’s concern for the safety and protection of minority communities, particularly Hindus, who have increasingly found themselves vulnerable amid the ongoing political turmoil in Bangladesh.

Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s commitment to standing by the people of Bangladesh through various developmental initiatives. However, the focus of the conversation remained on the safety and security of minorities, who have faced heightened threats following the recent change in administration and during ongoing protests.

Modi emphasized the necessity for the Interim Government to prioritize the protection of all minority communities, especially Hindus, who have historically been targets of violence during periods of political instability in Bangladesh.

Prof. Yunus assured the Prime Minister that the Interim Government is committed to ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of all minority groups in Bangladesh. This reassurance comes at a time when fear and uncertainty are rife among these communities, particularly in the wake of violent incidents that have already resulted in significant property damage and the tragic loss of lives.

The political transition in Bangladesh has been marked by widespread unrest, and minority communities, especially Hindus, have borne the brunt of the violence. Reports indicate that several properties belonging to Hindus have been vandalized, and individuals from these communities continue to live in fear within their own neighborhoods.

The Prime Minister’s public statement on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) echoed these concerns: “Received a telephone call from Professor Muhammad Yunus, @ChiefAdviserGoB. Exchanged views on the prevailing situation. Reiterated India’s support for a democratic, stable, peaceful, and progressive Bangladesh. He assured protection, safety, and security of Hindus and all minorities in Bangladesh.”

India has consistently expressed its concern over the treatment of minorities in Bangladesh, and the recent developments have only heightened these worries. The Indian government has been vocal about the need for Bangladesh to uphold its commitments to protecting minority rights, a stance that aligns with India’s broader regional strategy of advocating for peace and stability in South Asia.

The assurance from Prof. Yunus is a positive step, but the real test will be in the actions taken by the Interim Government to safeguard these vulnerable populations during this tumultuous period. The international community, and India in particular, will be watching closely to ensure that these commitments are upheld and that Bangladesh can emerge from its current crisis with its democratic values intact.