Bangladesh’s interim government’s chief adviser, Muhammad Yunus, has assured Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi of the protection and safety of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. This assurance comes amidst growing concerns over recent violence in the country, which has targeted minority communities, including Hindus.
During a recent phone call, Muhammad Yunus communicated his commitment to safeguarding the rights and security of Hindus and all minorities in Bangladesh. This conversation, reported by PM Modi on social media, emphasized the importance of maintaining a peaceful and stable Bangladesh, especially in light of the ongoing unrest following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
PM Modi’s Concerns Over Violence in Bangladesh
The assurance from Muhammad Yunus comes in response to PM Modi’s Independence Day speech, where he expressed concerns over the safety of Hindus and minorities in Bangladesh. The Prime Minister highlighted that 140 crore Indians are worried about the situation in the neighboring country and hoped for a return to normalcy soon.
“Received a telephone call from Professor Muhammad Yunus. Exchanged views on the prevailing situation. Reiterated India’s support for a democratic, stable, peaceful, and progressive Bangladesh. He assured protection, safety, and security of Hindus and all minorities in Bangladesh,” PM Modi shared in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Violence and Attacks on Minorities in Bangladesh
The recent turmoil in Bangladesh has seen widespread violence, with many reports of attacks on Hindus and other minority communities. Temples have been destroyed, and mobs have targeted both men and women from these communities. Disturbing visuals from across the country show the extent of the damage, including the destruction of the Indian Cultural Centre and the vandalization of several institutions, including the ISKCON temple.
In response to the violence, Muhammad Yunus made a public gesture of solidarity by visiting the Dhakeshwari temple in Dhaka, where he promised to punish those responsible for the attacks on minorities. This move was seen as an effort to reassure the Hindu community in Bangladesh and signal the government’s commitment to their protection.
Political Reactions and Support for Bangladesh
The violence in Bangladesh has also sparked reactions in India, with political leaders expressing their concerns. Congress MP and Opposition leader Shashi Tharoor commented on the situation, highlighting the difficulty for Indians to remain indifferent when symbols of India’s friendship with Bangladesh are being attacked.
“It’s extremely tragic that what was hailed as a democratic, popular revolution has degenerated into anarchy, and violence targeting the minorities and the Hindu minority… We in India must stand with the people of Bangladesh. But it’s difficult for us to be indifferent when every symbol of India’s friendship with Bangladesh is being attacked,” Tharoor stated in an interview with ANI.
Ongoing Tensions and the Road Ahead
The situation in Bangladesh remains tense, with ongoing clashes between the military and members of the Hindu community who are protesting against the recent violence. One such clash occurred outside the Jamuna State Guest House in Dhaka, where Muhammad Yunus is currently residing. Protesters, carrying posters of missing family members, demanded justice and accountability for the violence that has shaken the nation.
The unrest in Bangladesh follows the resignation of Sheikh Hasina, who ruled the country for 15 years. Her resignation was prompted by massive protests, which began as a movement against a job-quota scheme but quickly escalated into widespread calls for her ouster. The controversial quota system reserved 30% of civil service jobs for families of veterans from the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, leading to significant public outcry.
As Bangladesh navigates this period of political and social turmoil, the assurance from Muhammad Yunus regarding the protection of Hindus and minorities is a critical step towards restoring stability and confidence in the interim government. The international community, particularly India, will continue to watch closely as these developments unfold, hoping for a peaceful resolution and the safety of all communities in Bangladesh.
Stay tuned to News Now Nation for updates and more news.
Follow us on social media for real-time news updates: