Concerns Over Violence Against Minorities in Bangladesh Raised Again by MEA

Synopsis
India has once again raised alarms regarding the ongoing violence against minorities in Bangladesh, urging the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus to take appropriate action against the offenders.
Key Takeaways
- India expresses concern over minority persecution in Bangladesh.
- PM Modi emphasizes the need for action against violence.
- Importance of avoiding inflammatory rhetoric highlighted.
- Commitment to a stable and inclusive Bangladesh reiterated.
- Border security measures discussed for maintaining stability.
New Delhi, April 9 (NationPress) India has once again expressed its worries regarding the persecution of minorities in Bangladesh, with the hope that the interim government led by Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus will take decisive measures against those who commit acts of violence.
Recently, during a meeting with Yunus on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised concerns about the safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh, particularly the Hindu community.
"In our discussions, we addressed the issue of minorities. We have voiced our concerns regarding their treatment and the violence they face. This violence and the atrocities committed against them cannot simply be overlooked or attributed to political motives or media sensationalism. We expect the Bangladesh government to take strong action against those responsible for these crimes," stated Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) during a weekly media briefing in New Delhi.
This meeting in Bangkok marked the first in-person dialogue between the two leaders since the removal of the Awami League government led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the establishment of the interim government under Yunus last August.
During their talks, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the importance of avoiding any rhetoric that could escalate tensions and expressed his belief that all mutual interests between the two nations could be addressed and resolved through constructive discussions, fostering the long-standing bilateral relationship.
"The Prime Minister also reiterated India's concerns over the safety of minorities in Bangladesh, including Hindus, and expressed the expectation that the Bangladesh government would ensure their protection by thoroughly investigating all cases of violence against them," added Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri following the BIMSTEC Summit.
PM Modi also reaffirmed India's commitment to a democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive, and inclusive Bangladesh. He highlighted India's belief in a people-centered approach to their relationship and pointed out the long-standing cooperation that has provided tangible benefits to both nations.
"In this context, he once again emphasized to Prof Yunus India's desire to cultivate a positive and constructive partnership with Bangladesh based on pragmatism. The Prime Minister reiterated that any rhetoric that could disrupt the environment should be avoided.
"Regarding border security, strict enforcement of laws and prevention of illegal crossings, especially at night, is crucial for maintaining stability. There are various mechanisms between our countries that could convene as needed to review and advance our relations," remarked Foreign Secretary Misri.
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