NEW DELHI: The ministry of external affairs (MEA) on Thursday expressed concerns over a series of attacks on Hindu temples in Bangladesh, calling for swift action from the Bangladeshi government to ensure the safety and security of its minority communities.
Responding to a question on the issue in Rajya Sabha, minister of state for external affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh said, “Several incidents of desecration and damages to Hindu temples and deities in Bangladesh have been reported in the past few months. The Government of India has expressed its concerns about such incidents, including the attack on a Puja Mandap in Tantibazar, Dhaka, and the theft at the Jeshoreshwari Kali temple at Satkhira during Durga Puja 2024.”
The minister reiterated India’s stance, urging Bangladesh to uphold the protection of life and liberty for all its citizens, especially minorities.
“The Government has also called upon the Government of Bangladesh to ensure the safety and security of Hindus and all minorities and their places of worship. The primary responsibility for the protection of life and liberty of all citizens of Bangladesh, including minorities, rests with the Government of Bangladesh,” Singh added.
Rising attacks on Hindu places of worship
The rise in attacks coincides with growing political instability in Bangladesh following the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
In an incident, a crude bomb was hurled at a Durga Puja Mandap in Dhaka’s Tantibazar area. While the bomb caused minor damage and no injuries, the incident highlighted the vulnerability of Hindu worshippers during the festive season.
In October this year, a crown of goddess Kali gifted by PM Modi during his visit in March 2021 was stolen from the Jeshoreshwari temple in Satkhira’s Shyamnagar.
Similar incidents of mob violence targeting Hindu temples and religious sites have intensified in recent months, drawing widespread condemnation from human rights organizations and neighbour 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 the spokesperson for the Bangladesh Sammilita Sanatani Jagran Jote, was arrested at Dhaka airport while preparing to board a flight to Chattogram. Reports suggest that he has been accused of disrespecting the Bangladeshi flag during a rally in October, though the specifics of the charges remain unclear.
The MEA had criticized the Bangladeshi government over Das’s arrest and subsequent denial of bail. “It is unfortunate that while the perpetrators of these incidents remain at large, charges should be pressed against a religious leader presenting legitimate demands through peaceful gatherings,” the ministry had said, condemning the treatment of minorities protesting peacefully against Das’s detention.
