Bangladesh’s interim government expressed shock over a suggestion by an Indian politician to send UN peacekeepers to protect minorities in the country. This came after violent incidents targeting the Hindu community following the ousting of Sheikh Hasina, the nation’s long-time leader, in August.
In August, a student-led movement toppled Hasina, who ruled for 15 years. Following her removal, several attacks were reported on the minority Hindu community, causing concerns among its members. Leaders of the community fear further violence.
On Monday, Mamata Banerjee, the Chief Minister of West Bengal, India, a state sharing cultural and linguistic ties with Bangladesh, urged New Delhi to involve the UN and call for peacekeepers to ensure the safety of Hindus in Bangladesh.
“They can send the peacekeeping force to Bangladesh and rescue our people,” Banerjee stated during a press briefing.
Bangladesh Reacts to Mamata Banerjee’s Statement
Touhid Hossain, Bangladesh’s foreign minister, expressed dismay at Banerjee’s remarks, calling it one of the strongest criticisms of Bangladesh from India since Hasina’s removal.
“I can’t understand why Mamata Banerjee made such a statement. I know her personally and have visited her home several times,” Touhid said. He also accused Indian media of spreading misinformation about the condition of Hindus in Bangladesh but emphasized that problems could be resolved through diplomacy.
Touhid added that his government was engaging with foreign diplomats to address concerns about the treatment of minorities and preserve friendly relations with India. He reiterated Bangladesh’s commitment to mutual interests between the two nations.
Rising Anti-India Sentiment in Bangladesh
Public sentiment in Bangladesh, a Muslim-majority country of 170 million, appears to be turning against India, which supported Hasina during her leadership. Hefazat-e-Islam, a prominent Islamic group, has led protests accusing India of promoting anti-Bangladesh narratives.
Social media campaigns have also surfaced, with verified posts showing students in Bangladesh placing Indian-flag doormats as a form of protest. Meanwhile, in Agartala, a city near the Bangladesh border, Hindu activists attempted to storm the Bangladeshi consulate in response to the minority attacks.
The situation highlights the rising tensions between the neighboring nations and growing concerns over the safety of minorities in Bangladesh.
