Grand Mufti of India condemns violence against minorities in Bangladesh

Calicut, Dec 04: The Grand Mufti of India, Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad, has expressed deep concern over the rising tensions in neighboring Bangladesh, urging the country to take immediate steps to ensure the safety and well-being of its minority communities.

The arrest of Vaishnava monk Chinmoy Krishna Das by Bangladeshi police on November 25 triggered widespread violence, leading to protests and heightened tensions in various parts of the country. The Grand Mufti condemned these incidents, calling them alarming signs of insecurity for minorities in Bangladesh.

Highlighting the regional implications of such disturbances, he noted that the insecurity faced by minorities in Bangladesh has resonated across South Asia, affecting neighboring countries like India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Nepal. "Governments must refrain from actions that provoke emotional responses among ordinary people or deepen communal divides," he stated.

In a statement, Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad urged the interim government of Bangladesh to prioritize peace and harmony while taking decisive measures to restrict communalism. He also called on India, as a close neighbor, to extend constructive support to Bangladesh in fostering stability and protecting minority rights.

The Grand Mufti emphasized the need for collective efforts to prevent the marginalization of minority communities and promote coexistence in the region.