India has urged authorities in Bangladesh to ensure the safety and security of Hindus and all minorities, including their right to freedom of peaceful assembly and expression. In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said, it has noted with deep concern the arrest and denial of bail to the spokesperson of the Bangladesh Sammilit Sanatan Jagran Jote Chinmoy Krishna Das. It said this incident follows the multiple attacks on Hindus and other minorities by extremist elements in Bangladesh. MEA said, there are several documented cases of arson and looting of minorities’ homes and business establishments, as well as theft and vandalism and desecration of deities and temples.

The Ministry said it is unfortunate that while the perpetrators of these incidents remain at large, charges should be pressed against a religious leader presenting legitimate demands through peaceful gatherings. It also notes with concern the attacks on minorities protesting peacefully against the arrest of Mr Das.