India Raises Alarm Over Attacks on Minorities in Bangladesh, Stresses Inclusive Polls
Photo Credit: ANI Via The Hindu on 26 Dec 2025
New Delhi: India on Friday said the continuing hostilities against religious minorities in Bangladesh are a matter of grave concern, while reiterating the need for the country’s upcoming parliamentary elections to be free, fair and inclusive.
The Ministry of External Affairs said New Delhi is closely monitoring developments in Bangladesh, particularly incidents involving minorities. The government’s remarks come amid reports of rising violence during the tenure of the interim administration in Dhaka.
India also reacted cautiously to the return of Bangladesh Nationalist Party acting chairman Tarique Rahman, stating that such political developments should be viewed in the larger context of ensuring inclusive democratic participation in the electoral process.
Concern Over Minority Safety
External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India strongly condemns the killing of Hindu youth Dipu Chandra Das in Bangladesh’s Mymensingh district. He underlined that sustained hostilities targeting minorities, including Hindus, Christians and Buddhists, cannot be ignored and remain deeply troubling.
According to Indian officials, more than 2,900 incidents of violence against minorities have been recorded in Bangladesh by independent sources during the period of the interim government. New Delhi stressed that these incidents should not be dismissed as exaggeration or explained away solely as political unrest.
India has consistently conveyed that accountability and justice for such crimes are essential for maintaining social harmony and democratic stability in the region.
Elections Must Be Free and Inclusive
New Delhi reiterated its position that the credibility of Bangladesh’s upcoming parliamentary elections will depend on inclusivity and fairness. Indian officials said all political stakeholders must be able to participate freely and safely, without fear or intimidation.
India’s response to Tarique Rahman’s return reflects this approach, with officials indicating that political developments should contribute to a more representative and inclusive electoral environment rather than heighten tensions.
Regional Stability at Stake
India’s remarks highlight growing regional concerns over political instability and communal violence in Bangladesh. As a close neighbour with deep historical, cultural and economic ties, India has a strong stake in Bangladesh’s internal stability and democratic trajectory.
The situation has drawn attention not only because of minority safety but also due to its broader implications for peace, cross-border relations and democratic norms in South Asia.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople
India’s strong and measured response reflects rising unease over the safety of minorities and the overall political climate in Bangladesh. With documented incidents of violence and elections approaching, the emphasis on inclusivity and accountability carries regional significance. How Bangladesh addresses these concerns in the coming months will be critical, not just for its democratic credibility but also for stability across South Asia.