India voices concern over recent situation in Bangladesh

India has expressed deep concern over a recent killing of a Hindu individual in Bangladesh and a series of violent incidents targeting members of minority communities, saying such acts cannot be ignored. New Delhi also reiterated its expectation of a peaceful environment for a free, fair, inclusive and participatory election in Bangladesh.

Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal made the remarks while responding to questions at a media briefing on Friday, December 26.

Jaiswal said India is aware of recent developments in Bangladesh and is closely monitoring the situation. He noted that India’s position on law and order in Bangladesh has been stated earlier and remains unchanged. Continued violence against minority communities, including Hindus, Christians and Buddhists, by extremist elements is a matter of grave concern, he added.

Condemning the brutal killing of a Hindu youth in Mymensingh, the spokesperson said India expects those involved to be brought to justice swiftly.

Jaiswal claimed that more than 2,900 incidents of violence against minorities during the interim government’s tenure have been documented by independent sources. These include killings, arson and land grabbing, he said, adding that such incidents cannot be dismissed as media exaggeration or merely political violence.

He did not comment on recent protests and acts of violence in front of Bangladeshi diplomatic missions and visa centres in cities such as Delhi and Kolkata.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s interim government has also condemned the killing of the Hindu youth. In a statement, the administration led by Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus said it does not support any illegal activity, mob violence or acts of brutality. However, according to the interim authorities, the incident in Rajbari was not a communal attack but the result of violence stemming from allegations of extortion and so-called criminal activity. Legal action will be taken against all those directly or indirectly involved, the statement said.

Responding to a question on BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman’s return to Bangladesh, Jaiswal said India supports free, fair and inclusive elections in Bangladesh and the issue should be viewed in that context.

On attacks on the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, he said India’s position on Bangladesh has been clear and consistent from the beginning, adding that India seeks stronger ties with the people of Bangladesh and supports peace and stability in the country.