Will follow Centre's stand: Mamata on B'desh situation: MEA officials to brief External Affairs Committee on Dec 11: Tharoor

PTI, KOLKATA/NEW DELHI, NOV 28, 2024 :  Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday expressed concern over the current situation in neighbouring Bangladesh but emphasised that she preferred not to comment on the matter, as it pertains to another country. 

Speaking in the Assembly, Mamata clarified that the issue was for the central government to address, and her state government would abide by its decision.

"Bangladesh is a different country. The government of India will look into it. It does not come under our jurisdiction. We are not supposed to talk about it or interfere. While we feel sorry inside, we follow the policies set by the Centre," Banerjee said.

The Chief Minister also mentioned that she had spoken with representatives of ISKCON on the matter, but did not elaborate further.

Meanwhile, Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs chairperson Shashi Tharoor said that the Ministry of External Affairs officials will brief the committee on the situation in Bangladesh on December 11. Tharoor's remarks come days after India noted with "deep concern" the arrest and denial of bail to Hindu spiritual leader Chinmoy Krishna Das, and urged authorities in the neighbouring country to ensure the safety and security of Hindus and all other minority groups.

Asked whether the panel has sought a briefing from the MEA on the Bangladesh situation, Tharoor said: "Yes, we have, we will be having a briefing on Bangladesh in a couple of weeks' time on December 11. Next week, there are pending issues on which the foreign secretary will brief us on."

Speaking on the Bangladesh situation, Tharoor said: "It seems very grave and troubling. All Indians will be concerned because it is a next-door neighbour whose well-being we are concerned about