Tensions Rise Over Bangladesh’s Treatment of Minorities; BJP and TMC React to Arrest of Hindu Leader Chinmoy Krishna Prabhu

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, November 27, 2024, Kolkata: The ongoing crisis in Bangladesh, particularly the escalating violence against minority Hindus, has sparked concern in India, with both political leaders and citizens closely watching the situation. Recently, Hindu leader Chinmoy Krishna Prabhu, a prominent figure from Bangladesh, was arrested, further intensifying fears of rising extremism and persecution of minorities in the neighboring country.

The arrest has drawn strong reactions from Indian political figures, especially the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). BJP leaders have condemned the ongoing attacks on Hindus and other minority groups in Bangladesh, citing a recent surge in violence, including arson, looting, and vandalism targeting homes, businesses, and religious establishments. In a statement, the BJP expressed deep concern, particularly about the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Prabhu, a spokesperson for the Bangladesh Sammilita Sanatani Jagran Jote. The party emphasized that the situation poses a grave threat to religious freedom and human rights in Bangladesh.

“We have noted with deep concern the arrest and denial of bail of Shri Chinmoy Krishna Prabhu, and the continued attacks on minorities in Bangladesh. Extremists have been emboldened to carry out arson, looting, and violent acts against Hindus and other minority communities. This cannot be ignored,” the BJP said in a statement.

In response to the growing tensions, Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Abhishek Banerjee also addressed the issue during a press interaction on Wednesday at the Parliament premises. When asked about the situation in Bangladesh, Banerjee acknowledged the gravity of the situation but refrained from commenting on internal matters of another country. “It is not our place to interfere in the affairs of another nation, but the incident is indeed unfortunate,” Banerjee stated, expressing concern over the violence and unrest.

However, a video clip of Abhishek Banerjee’s statement was posted on the official X (formerly Twitter) handle of the Trinamool Congress, where the party wrote, “Abhishek Banerjee expresses concern over the situation in Bangladesh.” The post was later deleted, raising questions about the party’s stance and the potential diplomatic implications.

The issue has also stirred up domestic politics, with the opposition BJP demanding stronger action from the Indian government. BJP leader Shuvendu Adhikari weighed in, suggesting that India may need to take more decisive steps if the situation in Bangladesh worsens, even hinting at the possibility of reopening the Petrapole border. “If necessary, we will reopen the Petrapole border to protect the interests of the people and ensure that the persecuted minorities have a safe passage,” Adhikari stated, reflecting the urgency of the situation in the eyes of the opposition.

As tensions rise, questions are being raised about the relationship between Bangladesh and India, with some speculating that the Bangladeshi government, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, may be gravitating towards Pakistan. This speculation comes amid growing concerns that the government in Dhaka may be increasingly hostile to India, even as the violence against Hindus and other religious minorities escalates in Bangladesh.

The Indian government, for its part, has reiterated its deep concern about the ongoing violence and the arrest of Prabhu, while continuing to monitor the situation closely. “The violence against minorities in Bangladesh is deeply troubling, and we continue to call for respect for religious freedom and human rights,” a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs read.

As the situation in Bangladesh continues to evolve, both countries face critical challenges in maintaining diplomatic relations and addressing the humanitarian crisis unfolding at their borders. The international community is watching closely as both India and Bangladesh navigate this delicate and increasingly volatile situation.