India raises concerns over attacks on minorities in Bangladesh during high-level meeting
PTC Web Desk: India has expressed its concerns over recent attacks on minorities and religious sites in Bangladesh during a high-level meeting between Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Bangladeshi officials. The discussions marked the first major engagement between the two nations since Sheikh Hasina’s government was ousted in August.
During his day-long visit to Dhaka, Vikram Misri met Bangladeshi Foreign Adviser Mohammad Touhid Hossain and conveyed New Delhi’s displeasure over the incidents targeting religious institutions and cultural heritage. "The attacks on religious and cultural sites are deeply regrettable," said Vikram Misri.
He emphasised India's commitment to fostering a "positive, constructive, and mutually beneficial" partnership with Bangladesh, even as the two nations navigate strained relations. “I reiterated India’s willingness to closely cooperate with the interim government of Bangladesh,” he added during a media briefing.
The talks, described as "frank and constructive" by Misri, also provided an opportunity to review the broader state of bilateral ties. Discussions with Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Jashim Uddin at the Padma state guest house began with one-on-one talks, followed by a formal meeting involving senior officials from both sides.
The diplomatic engagement comes at a time when India-Bangladesh relations are under pressure following Sheikh Hasina’s removal from power amid large-scale protests. Nobel laureate Mohammad Yunus currently leads Bangladesh as the interim Chief Adviser after Ms. Hasina fled to India.
Highlighting India’s concerns for the safety and welfare of minorities in Bangladesh, Misri reiterated the importance of protecting cultural and religious sites. He noted that both nations must work together to address these sensitive issues while strengthening their ties.
Diplomatic observers view this meeting as a pivotal step toward stabilising relations between the two neighbours during a period of political upheaval in Bangladesh.
- With inputs from agencies
