India condemns violence against minorities in Dhaka, backs free and fair polls in Bangladesh

India has strongly condemned the recent violence against religious minorities in Bangladesh and expressed serious concern over what it described as continuing and targeted attacks. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the situation is alarming and called on the authorities in Bangladesh to ensure the safety of all minority communities, including Hindus, Christians, and Buddhists.

The statement was made by MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a press conference in New Delhi on Friday. He referred to several violent incidents, including the killing of a Hindu युवक (youth) in Mymensingh, and stressed that those responsible must be identified and punished according to the law.

India raises concern over repeated attacks on minorities in Bangladesh.

Randhir Jaiswal said that India is deeply disturbed by what he called “unremitting hostilities” against minority communities in Bangladesh. He stated that such incidents are not isolated cases and should not be dismissed as political clashes or exaggerated media reports. According to him, independent sources have documented more than 2,900 incidents of violence against minorities during the tenure of Bangladesh’s interim government.

The MEA spokesperson made it clear that India has rejected any false narrative being spread in Bangladesh that blames India for internal issues. He said that maintaining law and order is the responsibility of the Bangladesh interim government and that it must take immediate steps to protect its citizens, regardless of religion.

Jaiswal emphasised that India is closely monitoring the situation and remains concerned about the safety and security of minorities. He reiterated India’s condemnation of the killing of the Hindu youth in Mymensingh and said such acts of violence damage social harmony and regional stability.

He added that the large number of documented cases cannot be ignored. According to the MEA, these incidents show a worrying pattern of hostility that needs urgent attention from Bangladeshi authorities. India expects firm action against extremist elements involved in such attacks.

India supports free and fair elections and regional stability.

On political developments in Bangladesh, Randhir Jaiswal said that India supports free, fair, inclusive, and participatory elections in the neighbouring country. Commenting on the return of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader Tarique Rahman, he said this development should be seen in the broader context of democratic processes.

Jaiswal stated that India wants peace and stability in Bangladesh and seeks to strengthen ties with the people of the country. He added that India has consistently supported democratic values and believes that transparent elections are essential for long-term stability and good governance.

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During the same briefing, the MEA spokesperson also addressed several other international and consular issues. Responding to a question about an Indian student who recently died in Canada, Jaiswal said the government is in touch with the student’s family and has conveyed its deepest condolences. He added that Indian authorities are coordinating with local Canadian officials to understand the circumstances surrounding the death.

The Indian consulate in Canada is providing all possible assistance to the family, he said. The MEA assured that it remains committed to supporting Indian citizens abroad during difficult situations.

Jaiswal also spoke about India’s efforts to bring back fugitives who are wanted by Indian law. He said the government is in talks with several countries to facilitate the return of such individuals. While acknowledging that the process involves complex legal procedures, he stressed that India remains committed to ensuring that fugitives face trial in Indian courts.

Addressing concerns related to H-1B visas in the United States, Jaiswal said the Indian government has received multiple complaints from Indian nationals facing difficulties in rescheduling their visa appointments. He explained that visa matters fall under the sovereign authority of individual countries, but India has raised these concerns with the US government both in New Delhi and Washington, DC.

He noted that many people have been stranded for extended periods, causing hardship to families and disrupting children’s education. The MEA, he said, is actively engaging with US authorities to reduce disruptions and find solutions for affected Indian nationals.

In conclusion, India has clearly stated its position on multiple international issues. While strongly condemning violence against minorities in Bangladesh and urging protection of vulnerable communities, it has also reaffirmed its support for democratic processes and regional stability. At the same time, the government continues to address concerns of Indian citizens abroad, underlining its commitment to their safety and welfare.