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India has expressed deep concern over a series of attacks on Hindu temples, shrines, and puja mandaps in Bangladesh, describing the incidents as a "systematic pattern of desecration." The attacks, which have included acts of vandalism, robbery, and defacement, have taken place during the ongoing Durga Puja festival, a significant religious observance for Bengali Hindus.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs specifically cited the attack on a puja mandap in Tantibazar, Dhaka, and the theft at the revered Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple in Satkhira. The ministry stated that the attacks follow a "systematic pattern of desecration and damage to temples and deities" and urged the Bangladesh government to ensure the safety and security of Hindus and all minorities, especially during this festive period.
The attacks come amidst a period of political turmoil in Bangladesh, following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the establishment of an interim government led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus. While Yunus has characterized the attacks as politically motivated, India has expressed its serious concerns over the escalating violence against the Hindu community.
The theft of a silver and gold-plated crown gifted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple during his visit in 2021 has added further fuel to the controversy. India has demanded an investigation into the theft and swift action against the perpetrators.
The events have raised concerns about the state of religious freedom in Bangladesh, particularly for the Hindu minority. While Yunus has attempted to downplay the communal aspect of the attacks, attributing them to the political fallout of Hasina's removal, India's strong stance highlights the gravity of the situation and the need for robust measures to safeguard the rights of all communities.
The incidents have also underscored the importance of inter-state cooperation in addressing religious tensions. India's diplomatic pressure on Bangladesh, urging them to ensure the safety and security of its citizens, is a significant step in this direction. It remains to be seen how the Bangladesh government will respond to these concerns and what measures it will take to prevent further attacks on religious sites and communities.
Source: "Systematic Pattern Of Desecration": India On Bangladesh Durga Puja Attack