India monitoring situation in Bangladesh, in talks with interim government: MEA

India is holding talks with the interim government in Bangladesh and continuously monitoring the situation there with regard to the condition of minorities, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Friday.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Pranay Verma also met the advisor to foreign affairs in the interim government in Bangladesh

“An interim government has been formed in Bangladesh. We are speaking with them for the interests and aspirations of people of both nations, so that it strengthens the security and development of people of both nations,” Jaiswal said at the weekly briefing on Friday.

When asked regarding the condition of minorities in Bangladesh, the MEA reiterated that it’s the responsibility of every government to protect all its citizens.

“Regarding the condition of minorities…We are continuously monitoring the situation. Our High Commissioner met their advisor of foreign affairs, and during bilateral talks, raised the issue of minorities and Hindus as well…We hope normalcy is restored soon, so that minorities, including Hindus remain protected. It is the responsibility of every government to protect their citizens,” Jaiswal said.

The MEA informed that a limited visa facility is being provided by the Indian missions in Bangladesh in the current scenario and complete facilities will be restored after law and order is completely restored there.

“Limited visa facility is being provided currently. The complete visa facility will start only after law and order is completely restored there and normal life starts. Our High Commission and Assistant High Commissions are providing the consular and other services,” Jaiswal further said.

“Normal trade has begun with Bangladesh. Trucks have been flying between two countries carrying essential commodities and other commodities,” he added.

He further recalled age-old ties between New Delhi and Dhaka, stating that India has been a steadfast supporter of Bangladesh people since independence.

“India has been a steadfast supporter of the people of Bangladesh since independence. And will remain so in their quest for development, progress and prosperity,” Jaiswal said.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephonic conversation with Mohammad Yunus, the Chief Adviser of the interim government of Bangladesh on Friday and emphasised the need to ensure the safety and protection of minorities in the country.

Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s support for a democratic, stable, peaceful and progressive Bangladesh and emphasised India’s commitment to supporting the people of Bangladesh through various development initiatives, the PM Office stated in a press release.

During the call, PM Modi also underlined the importance of ensuring the safety and protection of Hindus and all other minority communities in Bangladesh.

Sheikh Hasina was forced to resign and flee Bangladesh after student protests turned into a massive anti-government movement. She arrived in India on August 5 at a short notice.

An interim government in Bangladesh, led by Nobel Peace laureate Muhammad Yunus, 84, was sworn in on August 8.

Several incidents of violence and chaos, especially targeting minorities, including Hindus have been reported from Bangladesh. India has raised its concerns about the situation and urged for full restoration of law and order.