India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has firmly rejected recent reports in sections of the Bangladesh media concerning a protest outside the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi, labeling them as "misleading propaganda." The ministry provided a detailed account of the incident, emphasizing the peaceful nature of the gathering and India's commitment to diplomatic security.
MEA Clarifies Details of the Delhi Protest
The controversy stems from a small demonstration that took place on December 20 in the Indian capital. According to MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, a group of approximately 20-25 youth assembled in front of the diplomatic mission. They were protesting the brutal killing of Dipu Chandra Das, a member of the minority community, in Mymensingh, Bangladesh.
Jaiswal, in an official statement, clarified that the protesters raised slogans condemning the "horrendous killing" and called for the protection of all minorities in Bangladesh. He stressed a crucial point: "There was no attempt to breach the fence or create a security situation at any time." The police present at the location dispersed the group after just a few minutes.
The MEA spokesperson also pointed out that visual evidence of the entire event is publicly available, contradicting the narrative being pushed in some quarters. He reiterated India's adherence to international norms, stating, "India is committed to ensure the safety of foreign Missions/Posts in its territory in accordance with the Vienna Convention."
India Voices Strong Concerns Over Minority Safety in Bangladesh
Beyond addressing the protest incident, the MEA statement conveyed India's ongoing apprehensions regarding the situation in its neighboring country. The ministry confirmed that India is "closely monitoring the evolving situation in Bangladesh."
Indian officials have maintained contact with Bangladeshi authorities and have "conveyed to them our strong concerns at the attacks on minorities." Furthermore, India has urged Bangladesh to ensure that the perpetrators responsible for the "barbaric killing" of Dipu Chandra Das are swiftly brought to justice.
Context of Heightened Tensions
The diplomatic exchange occurs against a backdrop of heightened sensitivity. Following the death of Osman Hadi and the mob lynching of Dipu Chandra Das, widespread violence was reported across Bangladesh. As a precautionary measure, security was strengthened outside the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi.
India's response underscores its careful diplomatic balancing act: firmly correcting the record on events within its own territory while explicitly raising serious human rights and safety concerns regarding the treatment of minorities in Bangladesh. The statement makes clear that New Delhi is watching developments closely and expects decisive action from Dhaka.
