Summary
Following Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s visit to Bangladesh, during which he raised concerns about the safety of minorities, the Bangladesh government arrested 70 individuals linked to recent attacks on Hindu communities and religious sites. Misri emphasized India’s desire for a positive, people-centric relationship with Bangladesh while urging stronger protections for minorities amid strained bilateral relations.

A day after Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri raised concerns about the safety of minorities during his visit to Bangladesh, the local government took action against anti-social elements involved in vandalism and attacks on Hindu properties. Several individuals responsible for the violence have been arrested.

During his meeting with Bangladesh’s foreign adviser Md Touhid Hossain in Dhaka, Misri highlighted India’s concerns over the safety of minorities, following recent attacks on Hindu temples and communities.

Government Response and Arrest Data

According to official data from the Bangladesh government, 88 cases have been registered and 70 individuals arrested in connection with rioting and vandalism since the departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

The government detailed that the Budha Christian Parishad reported numerous violent incidents between August 4 and 20, leading to 62 cases being filed and 35 arrests. Between August 5 and October 22, 26 attacks on religious sites were reported, resulting in the arrest of another 35 rioters.

Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafikul Alam noted that the number of cases and arrests is likely to increase as fresh incidents of violence have been reported in Sunamganj, Gazipur, and other regions.

Misri’s Statement Post-Meeting

Following the discussions in Dhaka, Misri stated that the visit allowed India to assess the situation after Sheikh Hasina’s government stepped down.

“India is keen to work closely with the current interim government,” Misri said.

He also reiterated concerns over minority safety, referencing the recent arrest of Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das and the surge in attacks on the Hindu community. These incidents have strained ties between New Delhi and Dhaka, with India urging stronger measures to protect minority groups.