New Delhi/Dhaka — In a strong statement issued on Saturday, India's Ministry of External Affairs expressed serious concern regarding recent attacks on Hindu places of worship in Bangladesh, specifically highlighting incidents during the ongoing Durga Puja celebrations. The ministry condemned the assault on the pooja mandap in Tantibazar, Dhaka, and the theft of sacred items from the Jogeshwari Kali temple in Satkhira, urging the Bangladeshi government to ensure the safety of Hindu citizens and their religious sites.
Reports indicate that a bomb was thrown at the Durga Puja Mandap in the Tantibazar area on Friday night, although no injuries were reported. The Ministry characterized these attacks as "deplorable" and noted a worrying trend of systematic desecration of temples and deities across Bangladesh. The ministry's statement further emphasized the need for attention to the security of all minorities in the nation. In an alarming context, Inspector General of Police for Dhaka, Mohammad Moinul Islam, disclosed to the Dhaka Tribune that at least 35 incidents of violence and vandalism have occurred during Durga Puja, leading to the arrest of 17 individuals and the registration of over ten criminal cases.
Local Hindu communities expressed heightened anxiety and fear due to these incidents, which have overshadowed the typically festive atmosphere of the celebration. The Hindu population in Bangladesh, which constitutes around 8% of the total populace—approximately 1.3 million people—has faced increased scrutiny and violence in past years, particularly following political upheavals. The recent attacks have deepened concerns among the community, impacting the spirit of this year's Durga Puja festivities.
In response to the unrest, Muhammad Yunus, the chief adviser of the interim government, paid a visit to the historic Dhakeshwari temple. During his visit, he articulated a vision for a Bangladesh where the rights of all citizens, including religious minorities, are safeguarded. As Bangladesh grapples with these incidents of religious intolerance, the international community, particularly India, continues to monitor the situation closely, advocating for the protection of minority rights and the sanctity of all places of worship.