"Expect Bangladeshi government to curb extremists": India on desecration of Lord Ram photo
New Delhi, June 23
India on Tuesday strongly urged Bangladesh to initiate decisive action against radical Islamist outfits and guarantee the absolute protection of minority communities.
The stern diplomatic message follows widespread demonstrations by the Hindu minority over the reported desecration of an image of Lord Ram during an Islamist demonstration in the Gaibandha district of northern Bangladesh.
Addressing the sensitive geopolitical developments during a media briefing, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal expressed New Delhi's deep concern over the escalating targeting of religious institutions and symbols.
"We have seen reports from Bangladesh regarding acts of desecration involving Hindu deities and their images, which have sparked protests. We expect the Bangladeshi government to curb the extremists there and guarantee the safety of the minority community," Jaiswal stated.
The backlash from Islamist groups and the reported defacement of an image of Lord Ram stem from the ongoing construction of a Lord Ram statue, which is slated to become the tallest of its kind in Bangladesh.
Located in Gaibandha, work on the monument was suspended following alleged intimidation by hardline factions.
In response to the state's perceived inaction, various Hindu organisations organised widespread demonstrations across Dhaka last week, demanding the immediate apprehension of the perpetrators.
Minorities belonging to the Hindu faith comprise approximately 8 per cent of the population in Bangladesh, a predominantly Muslim nation of roughly 170 million citizens.
— ANI
Reader Comments
This is deeply disturbing. No one should have the right to desecrate religious symbols, period. I hope the Bangladeshi authorities arrest those responsible and send a clear message that such acts won't be tolerated.
As a Hindu, this hits close to home. But let's also remember that Bangladesh has a secular constitution and many Muslims there support interfaith harmony. We shouldn't paint everyone with the same brush. The government needs to rein in these fringe elements.
It's alarming how quickly extremism can escalate. India's diplomatic pressure is necessary, but real change has to come from within Bangladesh. The silent majority must speak up against such acts.
I'm a bit conflicted. While I strongly condemn the desecration, I also wonder if India is being consistent—we have our own issues with religious intolerance. That said, Bangladesh should protect their Hindu minority, no question.
The government of Bangladesh must understand that a nation's strength lies in protecting all its citizens. If they fail to act, it will only embolden extremists further. India's stance is crucial here. 🇮🇳
Not to justify the extremists, but why was a Ram statue being built in a
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