Prominent Indian politician and grandson of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Prakash Balasaheb Ambedkar, has called upon the central government to adopt a firm stance in response to the recent attacks on minority communities in neighbouring Bangladesh. He emphasized that the situation represents a significant diplomatic and strategic concern for India.
Ambedkar's Call for a Strong Indian Response
In a statement issued on 21 December 2025, Ambedkar stressed that the Indian government must respond decisively to the violence targeting minorities across the border. He argued that a clear and strong position from New Delhi is not just a moral imperative but also a matter of regional stability. The attacks, which have raised alarm internationally, necessitate a proactive diplomatic approach from India, according to the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) leader.
The Larger Issue: A Lost Friendly Neighbour
However, Ambedkar pointed out that the immediate incidents are symptomatic of a deeper, more troubling trend. "The bigger issue is how we lost a friendly neighbour," he remarked. He elaborated that the deteriorating situation for minorities in Bangladesh and the consequent strain on bilateral ties did not emerge suddenly. "This situation did not simply appear overnight," Ambedkar noted, suggesting a history of underlying tensions and policy missteps that have eroded the historically close relationship between the two nations.
Context and Implications for India
The statement underscores a growing concern within Indian political circles regarding the security and rights of Hindu and other minority populations in Bangladesh. Analysts view such incidents as having direct implications for India's internal security and its standing as a regional power committed to democratic values. Ambedkar's intervention highlights the political and humanitarian dimensions of the issue, urging the Centre to look beyond immediate reactions and address the foundational cracks in the India-Bangladesh partnership. The call for a firm response is seen as part of a broader debate on India's foreign policy priorities in South Asia.
