Hugely inflated, bulk of them were fake news: Yunus tells Modi over attacks on minorities

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus today (4 April) conveyed to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi that the reports of attacks on the minorities were "hugely inflated" and bulk of them were "fake" news as Modi shared his "serious concerns" for the safety and well-being of Hindus and other minorities.

Responding to Prime Minister Modi's concern over the condition of minorities in Bangladesh, the chief adviser also asked the Indian leader to send reporters to Bangladesh to investigate the alleged attacks themselves.

During their meeting on the sidelines of the Bimstec Summit, Yunus said he has instituted an effective system for monitoring every incident of religious and gender violence in the country and his government was taking serious actions to stop any occurrence of such incidents, according to the Chief Adviser's Press Wing.

Through his social media handle, Modi said India remains committed to a "constructive and people-centric" relationship with Bangladesh.

"I reiterated India's support for peace, stability, inclusivity and democracy in Bangladesh," he said, adding that they discussed measures to prevent illegal border crossings and expressed India's "serious concerns" for the safety and well-being of Hindus and other minorities.

In a separate media briefing in Bangkok, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said Prime Minister Modi raised the issue of the condition of minorities in Bangladesh candidly during his conversation with Yunus.

PM Modi conveyed India's "deep concerns" on the matter and highlighted the broader societal implications of these developments.

The prime minister also made it clear that the responsibility for addressing these issues lies with the government of Bangladesh, Misri said.

Modi expressed his hope that the government would fulfill its responsibilities with seriousness and ensure that these matters are properly investigated and addressed.

Responding to a question, the Indian Foreign Secretary said as far as the issue of election is concerned, it is well understood that in any democracy, regular and "inclusive elections" are a vital component.

Modi shared his views on this matter with Yunus and expressed his hope that, moving forward, they will see a "democratic, inclusive, and stable" Bangladesh, Misri said.

It is universally acknowledged that elections play a crucial role in achieving that vision, said the Indian foreign secretary.

Responding to a question on former prime minister Sheikh Hasina's extradition, Misri said as far as Sheikh Hasina is concerned and the reference that was made in that context from the Bangladesh side - yes, this matter was raised during discussions.

"As our spokesperson has already informed you earlier, we have indeed received a communication on this issue. At this point, it would not be appropriate for me to comment further on the subject," said the Indian foreign secretary.

Both leaders - Yunus and Modi - concluded their "fruitful and honest dialogue" by wishing each other good health and personal well-being and extended their best wishes for continued peace, progress and prosperity for the people of both countries.