India has strongly criticised the reported demolition of a Durga temple in Dhaka, urging the interim government of Bangladesh to protect Hindus, their religious sites, and properties, amid growing concerns over repeated attacks on minorities in the country. The condemnation reflects the ongoing strain in India-Bangladesh relations, which have deteriorated since last year following political instability in Dhaka.
India Expresses Dismay Over Temple Demolition
During a press briefing, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal expressed India’s disappointment over the reported destruction of the Durga temple located in Khilkhet, Dhaka. He stated that extremists had been pushing for the temple’s demolition, and the Bangladeshi interim government, instead of ensuring the temple’s safety, allowed its destruction under the pretext of addressing illegal land use issues.
“This has resulted in damage to the deity before it was shifted. We are dismayed that such incidents continue to recur in Bangladesh,” Randhir Jaiswal said, emphasising that it is the responsibility of the Bangladeshi interim government to protect Hindus, their properties, and religious institutions.
Trade Measures and Strained Relations
The spokesperson also addressed recent developments in trade relations between the two countries. India recently imposed restrictions on the export of Bangladeshi ready-made garments and consumer goods through land ports, aiming to ensure fairness and reciprocity in bilateral trade. These restrictions follow India’s earlier decision to end the trans-shipment arrangement that allowed Bangladeshi exports to third countries via Indian ports and airports.
Randhir Jaiswal clarified that these measures were in line with Bangladesh’s own calls for fairness and equal treatment in trade practices, stating that India awaits the resolution of pending issues raised in previous structured meetings, including at the Commerce Secretary level.
Ties between India and Bangladesh have faced turbulence since former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled Dhaka and sought refuge in India in August last year amid mass anti-government protests. The situation worsened under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, which has struggled to curb rising attacks on minorities, particularly the Hindu community.
India has signalled its readiness to engage with Bangladesh on all issues in a mutually beneficial and conducive environment, while urging the country to uphold the safety and rights of its minority communities to stabilise its internal situation and bilateral ties.
