New Delhi, Aug 16: Muhammad Yunus, the Chief Advisor of Bangladesh’s interim government, called Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday. This marked the first interaction between the two leaders since former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned on August 5.
“Professor Muhammad Yunus called me. We exchanged views on the current situation. I reaffirmed India’s support for a democratic, stable, peaceful, and progressive Bangladesh. He assured me of the protection, safety, and security for Hindus and all minorities in Bangladesh,” PM Modi posted on X after the call on Friday afternoon.
Violence against minority communities in Bangladesh, particularly Hindus, poses a major challenge for the interim government led by Yunus, which took charge on August 8.
Interim Government Faces Immediate Challenge of Protecting Hindus
Since August 5, horrendous acts against the Hindu community have surfaced in Bangladesh. On Tuesday, the Bangladesh Jatiya Hindu Mohajot (BJHM), a national alliance of 23 religious organizations, reported that violence and vandalism occurred in 278 locations across 48 districts.
BJHM leaders highlighted that Hindus in Bangladesh live in fear and face threats to leave the country. They urged Yunus to take swift action during this period of uncertainty.
“Whenever there’s a change in government, Hindus become the first targets. Though such incidents were fewer before, they have now surged. We want to live securely in this country. We were born here, and we have rights in this country,” said BJHM President Prabhas Chandra Roy.
Yunus visited a historic Hindu temple in Dhaka on the same day and assured Hindu community leaders that establishing human rights and freedom of speech remains his top priority.
PM Modi Expresses Concern Over Rising Violence
Despite Yunus’s assurances, the violence persisted. PM Modi voiced his concern over the situation in Bangladesh during his Independence Day speech on Thursday.
“What’s happening in our neighboring country (Bangladesh) deeply worries us. I hope things return to normal soon… All 140 crore Indians are concerned about the safety of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. India always wishes for its neighbors to progress in peace. We are committed to maintaining stability,” PM Modi said.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed India’s support for Bangladesh’s stability and development: “In the coming days, we will continue to back Bangladesh’s ‘Vikas Yatra’ (development journey) because we are committed to human welfare.”
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