Vikram Misri expressed concerns about the safety of minorities during discussions in Dhaka.

 Vikram Misri expressed concerns about the safety of minorities during discussions in Dhaka.

India Highlights Concerns Over Minority Safety in Talks with Bangladesh

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, during his visit to Dhaka for annual foreign office consultations, conveyed India's concerns about the safety and welfare of minorities in Bangladesh. Misri emphasized India’s commitment to fostering a “positive, constructive, and mutually beneficial relationship” with Bangladesh, expressing New Delhi's willingness to work closely with the interim government.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri held talks on Monday in Dhaka with his Bangladeshi counterpart, Mohammad Jashim Uddin, and other delegates. The discussions took place amid strained bilateral ties following the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina (PTI).

The talks with Bangladeshi Foreign Secretary Mohammad Jashim Uddin, de facto Foreign Minister Touhid Hossain, and caretaker government chief Muhammad Yunus come amidst heightened tensions. These arose after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's ouster, which was followed by incidents of violence against minorities and the arson of the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre in Dhaka.

Misri reiterated India’s support for a “democratic, stable, peaceful, and inclusive Bangladesh.” While highlighting recent regrettable incidents, including attacks on religious and diplomatic properties, he called for a constructive approach from Bangladeshi authorities to address such issues.

In response, Jashim Uddin dismissed reports of minority targeting as "disinformation" by the Indian media, asserting that all communities in Bangladesh freely practice their faith. He also emphasized that internal matters should remain free from external comments, urging mutual respect for sovereignty.

Discussions covered the full spectrum of bilateral issues, including trade, border security, connectivity, and water-sharing agreements. The Bangladeshi side urged action to reduce border killings, tackle cross-border crime, and resolve trade barriers. They also called for cooperation in hydropower transmission and the repatriation of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar.

Misri highlighted India's developmental projects and people-centric approach in bilateral ties, reiterating that such cooperation is vital for the benefit of both nations' populations.

Relations between the two countries have been strained following the political transition in Bangladesh, with India expressing concerns about incidents of violence and the arrest of Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das on sedition charges. Despite these challenges, India remains committed to strengthening ties with Bangladesh, Misri said, expressing hope for a forward-looking partnership.