India Condemns Vandalism of Durga Temple in Dhaka
India has strongly condemned the recent destruction of a Durga temple located in Dhaka's Khilkhet area, expressing serious concerns over the safety and rights of Hindu minorities and their religious sites in Bangladesh. The Indian government holds the interim Bangladeshi administration responsible for ensuring protection and security for these communities and their places of worship.
Failure to Protect Religious Sites
Spokesperson for the External Affairs Ministry, Randhir Jaiswal, stated that reports suggest extremist groups urged the demolition of the temple, yet the interim government treated the matter as an issue of illegal land use instead of safeguarding the temple. This misstep allowed the temple's destruction to proceed, causing damage to the deity before it could be relocated.
"We are deeply dismayed by the recurrence of such incidents in Bangladesh," Jaiswal remarked, emphasizing that protecting Hindus and their religious institutions remains the responsibility of the interim government.
Diplomatic Stance and Upcoming Dialogues
Despite the tensions, India signaled readiness to engage in constructive dialogue with Bangladesh on various issues, contingent on a conducive environment fostering mutual respect and benefit. This comment came amid discussions about renewing the Ganges water-sharing treaty slated for next year.
Trade Measures Reflect Reciprocity
When questioned about India's recent decision to restrict Bangladeshi exports through land ports, particularly affecting ready-made garments and consumer goods, Jaiswal explained that these steps are driven by demands for fairness and reciprocity. India is waiting for long-pending issues raised during prior bilateral trade discussions, including Commerce Secretary-level meetings, to be addressed by Bangladesh.
These trade restrictions followed the termination of a nearly five-year arrangement that allowed Bangladeshi exports to transit third countries via Indian air and sea ports.
Deteriorating India-Bangladesh Relations
Relations between the two nations have strained considerably since the ousting of Bangladesh's former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina last August and her subsequent refuge in India amid widespread anti-government protests. The situation worsened as the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus struggled to prevent attacks targeting minorities, especially Hindus.
India’s latest statements reflect growing frustration over the safety of its Hindu minority community in Bangladesh as well as demands for equitable bilateral relations.
