'Strong condemnation required': India reacts to attack on Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's residence in Dhaka

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'Strong condemnation required': India reacts to attack on Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's residence in Dhaka

Synopsis

India expressed profound concern regarding the attack on Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's historic residence in Dhaka, calling the vandalism an act that must be strongly condemned. The Indian government emphasized the cultural significance of the site and urged accountability for those responsible for the act.

Key Takeaways

  • India condemns the vandalism of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's residence.
  • The residence symbolizes Bangladesh's resistance against oppression.
  • India calls for accountability for the perpetrators.
  • The incident underscores regional tensions and the importance of stability.
  • Bangladesh's government protests against perceived instigations from India.

New Delhi, Feb 7 (NationPress) India expressed deep dismay over the destruction of the residence of Bangladesh's founder, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and asserted that this act of vandalism must be unequivocally condemned.

Responding to inquiries from the press regarding the desecration of Rahman's residence, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, "It is unfortunate that the historic residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, emblematic of the brave resistance of the Bangladeshi people against oppression, was damaged on February 5, 2025."

"Everyone who appreciates the freedom struggle that shaped Bangladeshi identity acknowledges the significance of this residence in the country's national consciousness. This act of vandalism should be strongly condemned," he further remarked.

The MEA in India conveyed serious concern regarding the incident, emphasizing the cultural and historical value of the residence.

India urged that the individuals responsible be brought to justice and highlighted the necessity for peace and stability in the region.

On the previous day, a crowd vandalized Rahman's residence in Dhaka, as reported by Dhaka Tribune.

Images depicted flames emerging from one of the floors of the house.

The demonstrators, allegedly seeking a ban on the Awami League, forcibly entered the premises after breaking down the gate, leading to extensive damage, according to Dhaka Tribune.

Local news sources attributed the protest to an online address delivered by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Earlier social media posts had urged for a "Bulldozer Procession" towards Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's residence located in Dhanmondi-32 if Sheikh Hasina gave a speech, as reported by Dhaka Tribune.

By 10:45 PM (local time), an excavator was brought in to demolish the house.

Protesters, who arrived in a rally around 8 PM, forcibly entered by breaking the main gate and proceeded to vandalize the premises.

As per a report from Dhaka Tribune, many protesters climbed to the second floor, using tools such as hammers and crowbars to destroy portraits of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and damage parts of the historic house.

On Thursday, Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs lodged a strong objection with the Indian government regarding the "false and fabricated" remarks and comments being made across various platforms, including social media, by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, which aim to incite instability.

Through a formal protest note presented to the Acting High Commissioner of India in Dhaka, the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry expressed deep concern, disappointment, and serious reservations about such statements, asserting that they are damaging to the sentiments of the Bangladeshi people.

The Bangladesh Foreign Ministry also underscored that her actions are perceived as a hostile act towards Bangladesh and are detrimental to fostering a healthy relationship between the two nations.