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India has expressed deep concern over a series of attacks targeting Hindu temples and shrines in Bangladesh, particularly during the ongoing Durga Puja festival. The Ministry of External Affairs, in a statement, highlighted incidents of desecration, vandalism, robbery, and defacement, labeling them as a “systematic pattern.” This statement follows reports of a crude bomb being thrown at a Durga Puja pandal in Dhaka's old city, resulting in a fire, and the theft of a silver crown gifted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple in 2021.
The Indian government has urged the interim government of Bangladesh to guarantee the safety and security of Hindus and all minorities, especially during this auspicious festival period. The attacks on temples are particularly concerning given their timing, coinciding with Durga Puja, a significant festival for Bengali Hindus. The festival, celebrated over nine days and nights, culminates in the festival of Dussehra or Vijaya Dashami on the tenth day. The timing of the attacks suggests a deliberate attempt to disrupt religious harmony and create fear among the Hindu community in Bangladesh.
The attacks on temples and religious sites have raised concerns about the safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh. The interim government, led by Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, has faced criticism for its handling of the situation. While Yunus has attributed the attacks to political motivations stemming from the country's recent political upheaval, the Indian government remains steadfast in its condemnation of the attacks and calls for decisive action from the Bangladeshi authorities to ensure the safety of all its citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs.
Source: "Systematic Pattern Of Desecration": India On Bangladesh Durga Puja Attack