Bangladesh debunks India's allegations of security concerns for Hindus as 'baseless' 

Regarding a recent statement by India regarding security concerns for Hindus, Bangladesh has issued a response stating that the government finds such allegations baseless and assertions uncalled for.

"The interim government would like to reassure the international community that it continues to do its best to uphold the long standing secular and inclusive credentials of the people of Bangladesh," said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today (14 October).

The ministry said the attention of the government has been drawn to a statement by spokesman of the Ministry of External Affairs of India on 12 October, calling upon "….the government of Bangladesh to ensure safety and security of Hindus and all minorities and their places of worship, especially during this auspicious festival time." 

The same statement also alleges "…a systemic pattern of desecration and damage to temples and deities…"

"There were just a handful of incidents reported on which the government authorities acted promptly in ensuring safety and security of Hindus and other minorities throughout the festival times," said the ministry.

Communal harmony and peaceful coexistence remains a time-honoured feature of liberalism and democracy in Bangladesh uniting all people, it stated, adding that the government attests in strongest terms that every individual regardless of his/her faith, religion or belief has the right to establish, maintain or perform respective religious rituals or practices, without any hindrance. 

"This was vindicated by peaceful observance of Durga Puja in over 32,000 Puja Mandaps that were spontaneously set up across Bangladesh."

Mentioning the reported theft of a golden crown at the Jeshoreshwari Kali temple in the southern Bangladesh district of Satkhira on 10 October, the ministry said it had been confirmed that the head priest performed his regular puja rites until 2:30pm till which time the crown was intact inside the temple. 

"Investigations are underway to determine as to why the priest and temple staff left such a precious possession unguarded and insecure. Four individuals have already been arrested in connection with the theft case."

"Ensuring safety and security of all citizens, particularly the members of religious minorities, in Bangladesh remains a duty of the government of Bangladesh. 

"Upholding the rights of every citizen regardless of one's identity, religion or faith must be recognized as an internal affair of Bangladesh," said the government.