India’s Ministry of External Affairs has condemned recent attacks on Hindu religious sites in Bangladesh, calling for stronger protective measures for minorities during the Durga Puja festival. The incidents raise concerns about rising communal tensions amid political upheaval.
Dhaka:India has raised serious concerns regarding a series of attacks on Hindu temples in Bangladesh, including the theft of a ceremonial crown from the Jeshoreshwari Kali temple in Satkhira. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) criticized these incidents, urging the Bangladeshi government to implement stronger protective measures for religious minorities, especially during significant festivals like Durga Puja.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the MEA described the attacks as “deplorable” and emphasized the need for decisive action from Bangladesh to ensure the safety of Hindus and other minority groups. The theft of the ceremonial crown, a gift from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his 2021 visit, has particularly distressed the Hindu community, highlighting the need for greater vigilance.
Recent reports indicate at least 19 incidents of idol desecration in Bangladesh over the past two weeks, coinciding with Durga Puja celebrations. This surge in violence has left many Hindus feeling increasingly vulnerable, particularly in the context of a broader trend of hostility toward minority communities. Political instability in Bangladesh, following the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, is believed to have exacerbated these tensions, with extremist factions targeting religious minorities amid the chaos.
While Bangladeshi authorities have promised enhanced security around religious sites, skepticism remains among Indian officials regarding the effectiveness of these measures. India’s government has called for swift action to prevent further violence and hold perpetrators accountable.
In response to India’s concerns, Bangladesh’s interim government downplayed the severity of the situation, suggesting it had been exaggerated. Nevertheless, India’s MEA maintains that urgent attention is required.
The situation has also sparked protests in India’s northeastern states, particularly Tripura, where political leaders have demanded stronger diplomatic pressure on Bangladesh to safeguard its minority populations. Amid these developments, India’s government has established a special committee to monitor the safety of minorities in Bangladesh and assess the situation on the ground.
The recent attacks, alongside the theft of the ceremonial crown, reflect ongoing challenges to religious tolerance in Bangladesh, a nation founded on principles of secularism and pluralism. As the Hindu community continues to celebrate Durga Puja, there is a collective hope for peace and security, underscoring the importance of regional cooperation to protect vulnerable communities and foster religious harmony.
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