India raised considerations over assaults on minorities in Bangladesh and incidents of injury to cultural and spiritual properties in a high-stakes diplomatic assembly on Monday. The dialogue came about in Dhaka between Indian International Secretary Vikram Misri and his Bangladeshi counterpart Mohammad Jashim Uddin, marking the primary overseas secretary-level dialogue because the fall of the Sheikh Hasina authorities on August 5.
India Flags Issues Over Minority Security
Through the assembly, Misri conveyed India’s considerations concerning the security and welfare of minorities in Bangladesh. “We additionally mentioned some regrettable incidents of assaults on cultural, non secular, and diplomatic properties,” Misri informed reporters. “We count on, general, a constructive method on all these points by the Bangladesh authorities, and we look ahead to transferring the connection ahead in a optimistic, forward-looking, and constructive course.”
India’s apprehensions have grown because the interim authorities led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus assumed energy following large protests that led to Sheikh Hasina’s departure. Experiences of violence concentrating on Hindus and different minorities, together with assaults on temples, have added to New Delhi’s unease.
Bangladesh Counters Claims as Deceptive
Bangladesh, nevertheless, dismissed these considerations as “deceptive and false data.” Jashim Uddin highlighted what he described as a “unfavorable marketing campaign” in Indian media and urged India to take corrective measures.
“We drew their consideration and sought acceptable steps concerning dissemination of deceptive and false data in Indian media about Bangladesh’s July-August revolution and alleged hostile perspective to the minority communities right here within the post-revolution,” Jashim Uddin stated.
He harassed that followers of all faiths in Bangladesh had been freely performing their rituals and reiterated Dhaka’s dedication to defending its residents. “On the similar time, we stated no nation is anticipated to intrude in our inside affairs and reminded that Bangladesh refrains from commenting on inside affairs of different international locations. They need to as effectively present equivalent respect for us,” Jashim Uddin added.
Key Points Mentioned: Water-Sharing and Border Administration
The assembly additionally touched on longstanding bilateral points, together with the water-sharing settlement for the Teesta River and the renewal of the Ganges Water Treaty, which is about to run out in 2026. Jashim Uddin emphasised the significance of resolving these points promptly. “We’ve harassed the inking of the Teesta water-sharing deal alongside the renewal of the Ganges Water Treaty,” he stated.
Bangladesh additionally raised considerations over border killings and urged India to take efficient measures to make sure “zero killing” on the borders. Moreover, Dhaka requested the removing of current tariff and non-tariff obstacles and sought uninterrupted provides of important commodities from India.
Excessive-Degree Engagements Amid Strained Relations
Misri’s go to to Dhaka included conferences with Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and International Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain. Through the talks, Misri reaffirmed India’s dedication to fostering a “optimistic, constructive, and mutually useful relationship” with Bangladesh.
“At present’s discussions have given each of us the chance to take inventory of our relationships,” Misri stated. “I emphasised that India wishes a optimistic, constructive, and mutually useful relationship with Bangladesh. We see this relationship as a people-centric and people-oriented relationship; one which has the good thing about all of the folks as its central motivational pressure.”
Yunus, in flip, described India-Bangladesh ties as “very stable and shut” however expressed concern over statements made by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from India. “Our persons are involved as a result of she is making many statements from there. It creates tensions,” Yunus reportedly informed Misri throughout their 40-minute assembly.
The Chief Adviser additionally highlighted the significance of bilateral cooperation in flood administration and known as for India’s assist in reviving the South Asian Affiliation for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). “We wish to construct a affluent new future for all of us,” Yunus stated.
On the difficulty of minorities, Yunus assured Misri of his authorities’s dedication to safeguarding the rights of all residents, regardless of creed or ethnicity. “We’re a household,” he added.
Through the International Workplace Consultations, each side mentioned a variety of points, together with political and safety issues, commerce, connectivity, and regional cooperation underneath the BIMSTEC framework. Misri famous that India’s growth cooperation with Bangladesh is aimed toward benefiting the folks, specializing in sectors corresponding to energy, vitality, and capability constructing.
“We’ve all the time seen previously and proceed to see sooner or later this relationship as people-oriented, pushed by mutual belief and respect,” Misri stated. He additionally emphasised India’s willingness to assist Bangladesh’s efforts in the direction of a secure, inclusive, and democratic society.
Bangladesh’s assertion following the talks famous that the conferences supplied a possibility for each side to deal with considerations and discover pathways for strengthening bilateral ties.
India highlighted its growth initiatives in Bangladesh, together with tasks in connectivity, commerce, and vitality. Misri additionally underscored India’s readiness to reinforce collaboration in regional and multilateral boards, significantly BIMSTEC.
“The International Secretary’s go to will assist in sustaining bilateral engagement between India and Bangladesh, addressing considerations, and advancing substantive points within the relationship,” the Ministry of Exterior Affairs stated in a press release.
