23 Hindus killed, 123 temples attacked in Bangladesh: Government
What's the story
The Indian government has expressed its concerns over the rising violence against Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh.
Since August 5, 2024, a total of 23 Hindus have been killed and at least 152 Hindu temples have been attacked, the Ministry of External Affairs said.
Kirti Vardhan Singh, Minister of State for External Affairs, revealed these shocking numbers during a Lok Sabha session on Friday.
Diplomatic dialogue
India communicates concerns to Bangladesh
Further, Singh revealed that "76 cases of incidents of attacks against Hindus have been reported in Bangladesh" in a two-month period from November 26, 2024, to January 25, 2025.
Singh said the Indian government has expressed its concerns to the Bangladeshi authorities.
During India's Foreign Secretary's visit on December 9, 2024, India reiterated its expectations for minority protection in Bangladesh, he added.
Action taken
Bangladesh responds to India's concerns
On December 10, 2024, the Bangladeshi government had announced it had arrested 70 people in connection with attacks against minorities.
Police investigations have since confirmed a total of 1,254 incidents of these attacks.
The High Commission of India in Dhaka said it is closely monitoring the situation of minorities, reiterating that the responsibility of protecting all citizens in Bangladesh lies with its government.
Unrest escalates
Political turmoil and border tensions
The violence erupted amid political unrest after former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled Bangladesh on August 5.
Tens of thousands from minority communities have tried to enter India fearing persecution by the new government.
Hasina fled to India after the student-led rebellion ended her 15-year rule, and an interim administration led by Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus took over, backed by the military.