MEA Denounces ‘Threat to Dhaka Mission’ Report as Misleading Propaganda

#

India has dismissed reports from Dhaka about security threats to Bangladesh’s high commission in New Delhi as “misleading propaganda,” according to a statement released Sunday by the Ministry of External Affairs.

The ministry firmly denied allegations that protesters attempted to breach security at the diplomatic mission, stating, “There was no attempt to breach the fence or create a security situation at any time.” Officials emphasized that police stationed at the location quickly dispersed a small group of demonstrators, adding that “visual evidence of these events is available publicly for all to see.”

At issue were protests related to the killing of Dipu Chandra Das, a Hindu Bangladeshi who was reportedly lynched in Mymensingh on allegations of blasphemy. The protesters had gathered near the Bangladesh high commission to express their outrage over the incident.

Indian authorities have maintained that the diplomatic mission’s security was never compromised, underscoring India’s commitment to protecting foreign missions on its soil in accordance with international diplomatic protocols. “India is committed to ensure the safety of foreign missions/posts in its territory in accordance with the Vienna Convention,” the statement clarified.

The incident comes amid heightened tensions following reports of violence against religious minorities in Bangladesh. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that Indian officials remain in communication with their Bangladeshi counterparts regarding these concerns.

“Our officials remain in touch with Bangladesh authorities and have conveyed to them our strong concerns at the attacks on minorities,” the statement noted. India has specifically urged Bangladesh to bring those responsible for Das’s murder to justice.

The diplomatic exchange highlights ongoing regional tensions concerning the treatment of religious minorities in South Asia. Bangladesh has faced international scrutiny in recent years over incidents of violence against Hindu and other minority communities. According to human rights organizations, such incidents have periodically flared up during political transitions or periods of social unrest.

This latest incident also underscores the delicate nature of India-Bangladesh relations, which have historically been influenced by issues including treatment of minorities, border management, water sharing, and trade agreements. As neighboring countries with deep historical and cultural connections, developments in either nation often resonate across their shared border.

The Indian government’s swift response to the Dhaka reports reflects its awareness of how diplomatic misunderstandings could potentially escalate into larger bilateral tensions. By categorically denying any security breach while simultaneously expressing concern about minority protections, India appears to be pursuing a balanced diplomatic approach.

For Bangladesh, the incident comes at a time when the country’s human rights record faces increasing international attention. Several international organizations have called for stronger protections for religious minorities and accountability for perpetrators of sectarian violence.

The Ministry of External Affairs’ statement did not elaborate on whether additional security measures would be implemented at the Bangladesh high commission in New Delhi, though standard diplomatic security protocols remain in effect.

As both countries navigate this diplomatic exchange, observers note that maintaining clear communication channels will be essential for preventing further misunderstandings and addressing the underlying concerns about minority protections that triggered the protests in the first place.