Yunus dials Modi, promises security of minorities in Bangladesh

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 16

Bangladesh chief adviser Muhammad Yunus today called up Prime Minister Narendra Modi and assured him of “prioritising protection, safety and security” of Hindus and all minority groups in his country.

Attacks ‘exaggerated’

Reports of attacks on minorities have been exaggerated and he (Yunus) is inviting Indian journalists to report from the ground on the issues of the minority protection. — Bangladesh Chief Adviser’s Office

This comes a day after PM Modi in his Independence Day address spoke about 140 crore Indians being “worried about the safety of Hindus in Bangladesh”.

The Ministry of External Affairs said PM Modi held a telephonic conversation with Prof Yunus — the first direct communication between the two leaders after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government on August 5.

“The PM underlined the importance of ensuring the safety and protection of Hindus and all other minority communities in Bangladesh,” a statement said, adding “Prof Yunus, in turn, assured that the interim government would prioritise protection, safety and security of Hindus and all minority groups in Bangladesh.”

Modi reaffirmed India’s support for a democratic, stable, peaceful and progressive Bangladesh. He emphasised India’s commitment to supporting the people of Bangladesh through various development initiatives.

The two leaders also discussed ways for taking the bilateral relationship forward in line with the respective national priorities.

In his address from the Red Fort, Modi had said 140 crore Indians were worried about the safety of Hindus in Bangladesh in the wake of attacks.

“India will always be a well-wisher of Bangladesh’s progress. We hope the situation normalises in Bangladesh soon. Indians want the security of Hindus, and minorities there to be ensured,” Modi had said.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal termed media queries on demand for Hasina’s extradition “hypothetical questions”. On her length of stay in India, Jaiswal said “the situation is still evolving”. Hasina is believed to be considering various options, including the United Arab Emirates, Belarus, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Finland, for refuge.

On resumption of ties with Dhaka, Jaiswal clarified supplies to the neighbouring country were back on track. Two days ago, the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry had said it wanted to “work closely” with India and assured it would “not tolerate” violence against minorities. Yunus is likely to attend the 3rd Voice of the Global South Summit to be hosted online by India.