Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi
New Delhi, Jun 27: India has expressed deep concern and disappointment over the reported demolition of a Durga temple in Khilkhet, Dhaka, calling the incident yet another blow to the safety and dignity of the Hindu minority community in Bangladesh.
External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, addressing the media on Thursday, strongly condemned the destruction and stressed that it is the responsibility of the interim government in Bangladesh to ensure the security of minority communities and safeguard their religious institutions.
“We understand that extremists were clamouring for the demolition of the Durga temple in Khilkhet. Rather than protecting the shrine, the interim government claimed it was illegal land use and permitted its destruction,” Jaiswal said, adding that the temple deity itself was damaged in the process before being relocated.
India voiced its dismay that such incidents continue to recur despite repeated concerns. Jaiswal underscored that protecting Hindu lives, properties, and temples must be a priority for Bangladeshi authorities, especially during a politically sensitive time marked by a power vacuum and civil unrest.
Meanwhile, in response to queries regarding the curbs on Bangladeshi exports via Indian land ports, the spokesperson clarified that the decision stemmed from India’s long-standing demand for fairness, reciprocity, and equal treatment in trade. “We await resolution of the issues raised repeatedly during structured bilateral talks, including those at the Commerce Secretary level,” Jaiswal stated.
India’s recent trade restrictions include a halt on the export of ready-made garments and consumer goods through land routes. This follows New Delhi’s earlier termination of a five-year trans-shipment agreement that allowed Bangladeshi goods to be routed through Indian ports for export to third countries.
Ties between the two countries have soured significantly since August last year, after former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina sought refuge in India amid a massive protest movement in Dhaka. The situation further deteriorated under the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus, which has been accused of failing to contain violence against minorities, especially Hindus.
India has reiterated its willingness to engage with Bangladesh on “all matters” in a mutually respectful and conducive atmosphere, even as it remains concerned over growing hostilities and the safety of vulnerable communities across the border.