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The recent spate of attacks on Hindu temples and places of worship in Bangladesh has drawn strong condemnation from the Indian government. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement expressing “serious concern” over the incidents, particularly highlighting the attack on a Puja mandap in Dhaka and the theft at the Jeshoreshwari Kali temple in Satkhira. The MEA described these events as “deplorable” and stated that they follow a “systematic pattern of desecration and damage to temples and deities.”
The statement comes in the wake of several reports of violence and vandalism targeting Hindu communities and their properties during the ongoing Durga Puja celebrations. Notably, a hand-crafted golden crown gifted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi was stolen from a temple in Satkhira, further escalating tensions. The MEA urged the Bangladeshi government to guarantee the safety and security of Hindus and all minorities, emphasizing the importance of protecting their places of worship, especially during religious festivals.
The Bangladeshi authorities have responded to the incidents by arresting 17 individuals and registering over a dozen cases. The police report indicates that around 35 incidents related to Durga Puja celebrations have been reported across the country. The attacks come amidst a larger context of heightened communal tensions in Bangladesh, with the minority Hindu population facing vandalism and property destruction during the student-led violence that erupted following the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August.
The situation highlights the vulnerability of religious minorities and the challenges in ensuring their safety and security, particularly during sensitive religious periods. The Indian government's strong condemnation and call for swift action from the Bangladeshi authorities underscore the importance of maintaining interfaith harmony and protecting religious freedom. The events also serve as a reminder of the need for continued dialogue and cooperation between India and Bangladesh to address concerns related to communal tensions and ensure the well-being of all communities.