India calls on Bangladesh govt to curb extremism, ensure safety of minorities
New Delhi, June 23
India on Tuesday expressed hope that the government in Bangladesh would act against extremist elements and ensure the safety of the minority community following reports of desecration involving Hindu deities and their images that have triggered protests across Bangladesh.
Addressing a weekly media briefing, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "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."
The statement came amid escalating protests across Bangladesh over the alleged desecration of an image of Lord Ram by radical Islamists during a demonstration opposing the construction of the tallest statue of the deity in the Gaibandha district, according to local media reports.
As construction of the proposed statue remains on hold, thousands of Hindus marched through Dhaka carrying torches last week, chanting "Jai Shri Ram" and seeking action against those allegedly responsible for the desecration.
Taking to his social media platform X, Salah Uddin Shoaib Choudhury, Editor of Bangladeshi newspaper Blitz, said, "Hindus in Bangladesh roar against Islamists by chanting the 'Jay Shri Ram' slogan! Thousands of Hindus in Bangladesh went into the streets holding torches and chanting the 'Jay Shri Ram' slogan against the recent notoriety of Islamists against the Sanatan Complex in the Gaibandha district under the Rangpur division as well as disrespecting the portraits of Lord Ram. They have declared spreading such protest throughout the country and for the first time vowed to fight back."
The tension came days after Bangladeshi authorities ordered the suspension of the construction of Lord Ram statue at the Sri Sri Radha Govinda and Kali Temple in Palashbari upazila of Gaibandha district, according to local media reports.
The announcement was made by temple advisor Shyamal Kumar Mahant during a press conference held at the temple auditorium on June 11.
The decision has sparked strong reactions, with critics alleging that the suspension came under pressure from Islamist groups opposed to the project.
— IANS
Reader Comments
While I support minority rights, I hope the Indian government is also equally concerned about minority safety within our own borders. Let's not be selective about this issue.
Interesting how religion continues to be a flashpoint in this region. The protests in Dhaka with torches and chants of "Jai Shri Ram" show the deep emotions involved. Hope for a peaceful resolution.
The suspension of the Ram statue construction under pressure from Islamists is worrying. Bangladesh has a secular constitution, but ground realities seem different. Our neighbor needs to uphold its own laws and protect all communities.
As someone who follows South Asian politics, this is a delicate situation. India's call for action is reasonable, but it must be done through quiet diplomacy, not public statements that could inflame tensions further.
This is a test for the Bangladesh government. They talk about being a moderate Muslim nation, but actions speak louder than words. If they can't protect a minority community's right to build a statue, then something is fundamentally wrong. 🇮🇳
Both countries need to address extremism in all forms. While this incident is about Hindus in Bangladesh, similar issues exist elsewhere. The focus should be on protecting all minorities regardless of religion.