Bangladesh Violence: Giriraj Singh Calls It a Tragic Event Amid Protests

Union Minister Giriraj Singh has described the violent protests in Bangladesh as a tragic event. The unrest occurred outside the Indian mission in Chittagong, leaving several people injured. A Congress MP has called for the Indian government to take a firm diplomatic stand in response. India has already summoned the Bangladeshi envoy to express its security concerns.

Key Points: Giriraj Singh Reacts to Violent Protests at Indian Mission in Bangladesh

  • Violence erupted outside the Indian mission in Chittagong, injuring four people
  • Giriraj Singh called the incident tragic and a concern for secularism advocates
  • Congress MP Sukhdeo Bhagat urged the government to take a firm diplomatic stand
  • India summoned the Bangladesh envoy over security concerns for its missions
3 min read

'Tragic event': Giriraj Singh on violent protests in Bangladesh

Union Minister Giriraj Singh terms Bangladesh protests tragic. Congress MP calls for firm diplomatic action. Violence erupts outside Indian mission in Chittagong.

"This is a tragic event. It is especially concerning for those who frequently speak about secularism within India. - Union Minister Giriraj Singh"

New Delhi, Dec 19

Reacting to the violent protest in Bangladesh that left at least four people injured, Union Minister Giriraj Singh, on Friday, described the incident as a tragic event.

Speaking to reporters outside the Parliament, Union Minister Singh said, "This is a tragic event. It is especially concerning for those who frequently speak about secularism within India. Such incidents raise serious questions and should be reflected upon carefully."

Congress MP Sukhdeo Bhagat also reacted to the situation and termed it unfortunate.

The Congress MP said, "It is certainly regrettable that Bangladesh, a country India helped establish, is now taking a stand against us. The current situations in Nepal and Sri Lanka, and earlier in Pakistan, highlight the importance of diplomatic responsibility."

He also added that the Union government must handle relations with neighbouring countries cautiously.

"Peace comes through strength, and that strength is crucial. I believe the Union government should take a firm stand and ensure appropriate action," Bhagat said.

Meanwhile, violence erupted outside the Indian Assistant High Commission in Bangladesh's Chittagong, leaving at least four people injured, including two police officers.

The unrest broke out following the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, Spokesperson of the radical group 'Inqilab Mancha', local media reported.

According to the police, the protesters gathered outside the Indian mission's office in the Khulshi area of Chittagong hurling bricks, vandalising the office premises in the early hours of Friday.

Chittagong Metropolitan Police (CMP) Commissioner Hasib Aziz said that the police intervention resulted in a chase and counter-chase between law enforcement officers and the protesters.

He added that those injured in the violence were taken to Chittagong Medical College Hospital.

Aziz said that police detained people at the spot, who are likely to be booked under the Anti-Terrorism Act, according to the Bangladeshi daily Dhaka Tribune.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) summoned Bangladesh High Commissioner to India, Riaz Hamidullah, to convey New Delhi's strong concerns over the deteriorating security environment in Bangladesh.

According to the MEA, the Bangladeshi envoy's attention was drawn specifically to the activities of some extremist elements who have announced plans to create a security situation around the Indian mission in Dhaka.

India outrightly rejected the false narrative sought to be created by extremist elements regarding certain recent events in Bangladesh.

The MEA expressed concern that the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government in Bangladesh has neither conducted a thorough investigation nor shared meaningful evidence with India regarding the violent incidents.

India called on the Yunus-led interim government to ensure the safety of Indian missions and posts in Bangladesh in keeping with its diplomatic obligations.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
While the violence is tragic, I find Minister Singh's comment linking it to secularism debates in India a bit of a stretch. The focus should be on ensuring the safety of our diplomatic staff and de-escalating tensions, not making domestic political points.
R
Rohit P
The Congress MP is right about diplomatic responsibility. We need a firm but careful approach. Our neighborhood policy seems to be facing challenges from all sides lately. Strength is important, but so is maintaining long-term friendships. Jai Hind.
P
Priya S
Extremist groups creating trouble again. Hope the injured police officers recover soon. The Bangladesh government must investigate thoroughly and share findings with India. We cannot allow our missions to be targeted like this.
M
Michael C
Watching from abroad, it's clear India needs stable neighbors for its own growth. This instability in Bangladesh affects the whole region. Hope cooler heads prevail and the interim government takes control of the situation.
N
Nikhil C
The MEA summoning the High Commissioner was the right step. Sending a strong message is necessary. Bangladesh owes a lot to India, and such ingratitude from certain sections is painful to see. Hope peace is restored soon.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50