India Dismisses Bangladesh Media Claims on Protest as Misleading

New Delhi – The Indian government has categorically dismissed reports from the Bangladesh media describing a protest outside the Bangladesh High Commission as misleading propaganda. This response follows the recent killing of Dipu Chandra Das, a member of the minority community, in Mymensingh, Bangladesh.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India stated that it is closely observing the situation in Bangladesh and has expressed serious concerns about ongoing violence against minority groups in the country. The MEA clarified that only a small group of approximately 20 to 25 individuals gathered outside the Bangladesh High Commission on 20 December to protest against the violent death of Das, while also advocating for the protection of minorities in Bangladesh.

Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the MEA, stated, "We have noted misleading propaganda in sections of the Bangladesh media regarding the incident. The fact is that the group was dispersed by police shortly after they began their protest, and there was no attempt to breach security or create a disturbance at any time. Visual evidence of these events is publicly available."

The MEA reaffirmed India’s commitment to ensuring the safety of foreign missions in accordance with the Vienna Convention. Furthermore, the ministry conveyed that Indian officials are in ongoing discussions with their Bangladeshi counterparts regarding the treatment of minority communities, urging that those responsible for the murder of Dipu Chandra Das be held accountable.

Following the death of Osman Hadi, a prominent student activist, unrest has escalated across Bangladesh, leading to widespread protests in cities such as Dhaka. Hadi, a spokesperson for the youth group Inqilab Mancha, succumbed to injuries sustained during an assassination attempt, prompting calls for justice from political leaders, including interim leader Muhammad Yunus.

In a distressing incident, Dipu Chandra Das was reportedly lynched over allegations of blasphemy, with his body subsequently burned by a mob in Mymensingh. This brutal act has generated significant outrage and condemnation in India, resulting in protests directed at the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi.

The situation in Bangladesh remains tense, with ongoing protests reflecting deep-seated frustrations over the safety and rights of minority communities. As the Indian government monitors developments closely, it continues to advocate for the protection of all citizens in Bangladesh, irrespective of religious affiliation.