In his Independence Day address from the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke on Thursday about the recent attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh. Expressing his hope for a swift return to normalcy, he emphasized the need for Bangladesh to continue its journey towards development and prosperity. The Prime Minister also acknowledged the deep concern among Indians regarding the safety of Hindus and other minorities in the neighboring country.
“As a neighboring nation, I can fully understand the concerns arising from the recent events in Bangladesh. I sincerely hope that the situation stabilizes soon. The safety of Hindus and minorities there is a matter of concern for 1.4 billion Indians,” Modi stated.
The Prime Minister reiterated India’s commitment to peace and its desire for neighboring countries to thrive in prosperity and tranquility. He affirmed that India would continue to extend its best wishes for Bangladesh’s progress, viewing the welfare of all humanity as a core value.
This marks the second occasion on which Prime Minister Modi has addressed the issue of Hindus in Bangladesh. Earlier, when the interim government assumed power, he urged Muhammad Yunus, the chief advisor, to prioritize the safety and security of Hindus, who had been targeted by violent groups.
Following the resignation of Sheikh Hasina as Prime Minister and her departure from Dhaka on August 5, the Hindu community in Bangladesh has been subjected to a series of attacks and threats. According to the Bangladesh National Hindu Grand Alliance, these incidents have occurred in 278 locations across 48 districts. The alliance reported widespread vandalism, looting, arson, land seizures, and threats, all of which have escalated in the wake of the governmental transition.
Palash Kanti Dey, the spokesperson for the alliance, emphasized during a press conference at the National Press Club in Dhaka that the recent incidents are more than just personal attacks—they represent a broader assault on the Hindu religion itself. He highlighted the alarming scale of these threats, noting that by Monday, the Hindu community had been targeted in 278 different locations across 48 districts.
Adding to the distress, the Daily Star reported that on Tuesday night, a Hindu family’s home in the Farabari Mandirpara village of Thakurgaon Sadar upazila was set ablaze, highlighting the ongoing violence.
