India has strongly condemned the demolition of a Durga temple in Khilkhet, Dhaka, calling it a failure of the Bangladeshi interim government to protect minority communities. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed “dismay” over the incident and reiterated that it is the responsibility of the interim administration to safeguard Hindus, their properties, and religious institutions.
🛕 Temple Demolition Sparks Diplomatic Concern
According to MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, the temple was razed under the pretext of “illegal land use”, despite threats from extremist groups.
“This has resulted in damage to the deity before it was shifted. We are dismayed that such incidents continue to recur in Bangladesh,” Jaiswal said.
He emphasized that India is prepared to engage with Bangladesh on all matters, but only in an environment conducive to mutually beneficial dialogue.
⚠️ Rising Tensions in Bilateral Ties
The incident comes amid a sharp downturn in India-Bangladesh relations, following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024 and the rise of an interim government led by Muhammad Yunus. India has cited over 2,400 minority-related incidents in Bangladesh since the regime change.
📉 Trade and Treaty Implications
India has also imposed restrictions on Bangladeshi exports via land ports, citing the need for fairness and reciprocity. Talks on the renewal of the Ganges Water Treaty, set to expire in 2026, are now clouded by these developments.
🧭 Strategic Outlook
- India demands accountability for attacks on minorities
- MEA calls for protection of religious sites under international norms
- Diplomatic engagement hinges on restoration of minority rights and rule of law
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