By Dr. Kumar Rakesh
India on Thursday strongly condemned the reported demolition of a Durga temple in Khilkhet, Dhaka, calling on Bangladesh’s interim government to uphold its responsibility to protect Hindus and their religious institutions.
Addressing a weekly briefing, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal expressed deep concern over the incident. “We understand that extremists were clamouring for demolishing the Durga temple in Khilkhet, Dhaka,” he said. “The interim government, instead of providing security to the temple, projected the episode as illegal land use… and they allowed the destruction of the temple today.”
Jaiswal noted that the temple’s deity was damaged before it could be shifted, adding, “We are dismayed that such incidents continue to recur in Bangladesh.”
The spokesperson stressed that it is the responsibility of the interim government to ensure the safety and dignity of minorities. “The protection of Hindus, their properties, and places of worship is a fundamental duty of the authorities in Bangladesh,” he said.
India’s Trade Measures and Diplomatic Tone
On being asked about India’s recent move to curb Bangladeshi exports via land ports, Jaiswal clarified that the decision was made in line with India’s commitment to “fairness, equal treatment, and reciprocity.” He said unresolved trade issues have been raised with Dhaka during several structured meetings, including Commerce Secretary-level talks.
India’s latest trade restrictions target ready-made garments and consumer goods, following the termination of a five-year arrangement allowing trans-shipment of Bangladeshi cargo to third countries via Indian ports and airports.
Strained Bilateral Ties
Diplomatic ties between India and Bangladesh have come under serious strain since former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India in August last year amid widespread anti-government protests. Relations have worsened under the current interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, particularly after repeated reports of attacks on minority communities, notably Hindus.
Despite the tensions, India reiterated its willingness to engage constructively. “We are prepared to engage with Bangladesh on all matters in an environment that is conducive for mutually beneficial dialogue,” Jaiswal said in response to a question on the potential renewal of the Ganges Water Treaty next year.
