Following reports of growing tension in Chittagong due to incendiary social media posts, India has called upon Bangladesh to take stringent action against “extremist” elements threatening the nation’s Hindu community.
Addressing a media briefing, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal denounced recent attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh, attributing the unrest to "provocative social media posts."
“We have seen many videos circulating on social media. It is condemnable.” The unrest reportedly involved threats and looting directed at the Hindu minority," he remarked.
Jaiswal emphasised that protecting minorities is a "special responsibility" of Dhaka and stressed the need for immediate intervention.
“In Chittagong, incendiary posts were made on social media. Those provocative things were related to the Hindu community. A disturbance happened and some members of the Hindu community were threatened and many properties were looted,” he explained.
He attributed the escalating situation to "extremist elements" and expressed concerns over the potential for further communal strife.
India’s appeal to Bangladesh follows a recent incident in which a Puja mandap was reportedly attacked, and thefts were reported at a revered Kali temple.
On October 12, India expressed "serious concern" over these developments, urging Dhaka to ensure the safety of all minorities and their places of worship.
Jaiswal further addressed queries about a recent Awami League social media post congratulating Donald Trump, where Sheikh Hasina’s name was prefixed with 'prime minister'.
Clarifying India's stance, he said, “We have said from this place before that she is a former prime minister of Bangladesh, so that is where it stands.”
Touching upon India’s regional diplomacy, Jaiswal discussed an ICWA-organised workshop focused on constitutionalism and federalism in Myanmar, stressing India's "steadfast support for democracy, peace and stability" in Myanmar.
“As an important neighbouring country of India, developments in Myanmar are of interest to us and other stakeholders,” he reiterated.
Additionally, Jaiswal addressed questions regarding the recent disengagement between Indian and Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh, noting that “patrolling has commenced at both Depsang and Demchok” without any roadblocks, contradicting some reports.
On India-US economic discussions, Jaiswal acknowledged existing issues but highlighted an ongoing commitment to resolving them.
“Talks are going on between the two countries and whatever issues are there in economic ties, both countries need to think deeply and find agreements and work will be done on it,” he added.
Follow us
