India
‘Ensure the safety of Hindus and all minorities’: MEA responds to attacks on Hindu temples in Bangladesh | India News – Times of India
Replying to a question on the issue in Rajya Sabha, External Affairs Minister Kirti Vardhan Singh said, “Several incidents of desecration and damage to Hindu temples and deities have been reported in Bangladesh in the past few months. The Government of India has expressed concern over such incidents, including the attack on a Puja Mandap in Tantibazar, Dhaka, and the theft of the Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple in Satkhira during Durga Puja 2024.
Reiterating India’s stand, the minister urged Bangladesh to uphold the protection of life and liberty for all its citizens, especially minorities.
“The government has also appealed to the government of Bangladesh to ensure the safety and security of Hindus and all minorities and their places of worship. The primary responsibility for protecting the life and liberty of all citizens of Bangladesh, including minorities, lies with the Government of Bangladesh,” Singh added.
Increasing attacks on Hindu places of worship
The increase in the number of attacks coincides with growth political instability in Bangladesh after the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
In one incident, a crude bomb was hurled at a Durga Puja Mandap in Tantibazar area of Dhaka. Although the bomb caused minor damage and no injuries, the incident highlighted the vulnerability of Hindu worshipers during the festive season.
In October this year, a crown of Goddess Kali, gifted by Prime Minister Modi during his visit in March 2021, was stolen from the Jeshoreshwari temple in Shyamnagar in Satkhira.
Similar incidents of mob violence against Hindu temples and religious sites have increased in recent months, drawing widespread condemnation from human rights groups and neighboring India.
Prominent ISKCON priest Das arrested
The situation further escalated with the arrest of Hindu ISKCON priest Chinmoy Krishna Das, a prominent advocate for minority rights. Das, who serves as spokesperson for Bangladesh’s Sammilita Sanatani Jagran Jote, was arrested at Dhaka airport as he prepared to board a flight to Chattogram. Reports indicate he was accused of disrespecting the Bangladesh flag at a rally in October, although the details of the allegations remain unclear.
The MEA had criticized the Bangladesh government for Das’ arrest and subsequent denial of bail. “It is unfortunate that while the perpetrators of these incidents remain at large, charges must be filed against a religious leader who raises legitimate demands through peaceful gatherings,” the ministry had said, condemning the treatment of minorities peacefully protesting Das’ detention.
