Ashok Gehlot Slams Centre for Inaction Over Violence Against Hindus in Bangladesh

GG News Bureau
Jaipur, Rajasthan, 9th Feb. Senior Congress leader and former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has accused the Central Government of failing to exert diplomatic pressure on Bangladesh over the escalating violence against Hindus and other minorities following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Gehlot highlighted recent attacks on Hindu communities, stating that 23 Hindus had been killed and 152 temples vandalized since the August 5 coup that led to Hasina’s removal. He urged the Indian government to take diplomatic action to ensure the safety of minorities in the neighboring country.

“23 Hindus have been killed and 152 temples have been vandalized in the violence that has taken place since the coup in Bangladesh. It is unfortunate that despite such a situation, the Indian government has not yet deemed it appropriate to make any statement on global platforms or put pressure on Bangladesh,” Gehlot wrote.

Violence Against Hindus in Bangladesh Increases After Hasina’s Exit

Bangladesh has witnessed a surge in attacks on minorities, particularly Hindus, following the student-led movement that removed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from power on August 5, 2024. The coup led to the formation of an interim government headed by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus.

Since then, reports have surfaced of Hindu temples being vandalized, homes being torched, and community members being attacked. The violence has raised concerns among human rights organizations and Indian political leaders.

2,200 Cases of Violence Against Hindus Reported in Bangladesh

On December 20, 2024, Union Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh informed the Lok Sabha that 2,200 cases of violence against Hindus and other minorities were recorded in Bangladesh until December 8, 2024. Additionally, 112 cases of minority violence were reported in Pakistan.

“2,200 cases of violence against Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh were reported till 8th December 2024 and 112 cases were reported in Pakistan till October 2024,” Singh stated in a written reply to Parliament.

He further confirmed that the Indian government has taken note of these incidents and raised concerns with the Bangladesh government.

“India expects that the Government of Bangladesh will take all necessary measures to ensure the safety and welfare of Hindus and other minorities,” he added.

India Raises Issue with Bangladesh Government

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri visited Dhaka in December 2024, where he met with Bangladeshi Foreign Affairs Advisor Md Touhid Hossain. During the visit, Misri expressed India’s concerns over the rising attacks on minorities and urged the Bangladesh government to take immediate steps to protect vulnerable communities.

“We had the opportunity to discuss certain recent developments and issues, and I conveyed our concerns, including those related to the safety and welfare of minorities,” Misri stated.

The Indian High Commission in Dhaka continues to monitor the situation closely, with diplomatic channels open to ensure the protection of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh.

Ashok Gehlot’s sharp criticism of the Indian government’s handling of the Bangladesh crisis has reignited debates on India’s foreign policy approach toward its eastern neighbor. With the situation in Bangladesh continuing to deteriorate, calls for more assertive diplomatic intervention are growing.

As violence against minorities remains a pressing concern, all eyes are now on how the Indian government responds to the crisis and whether it will push for stronger international action to protect the affected communities.