Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday expressed deep concern about the safety of minorities in Bangladesh, especially Hindus in Bangladesh, in a meeting with Bangladesh Chief Advisor Mohammad Yunus. He expected the Bangladesh government that it would ensure the safety of minorities and conduct a thorough investigation into the atrocities against them. Apart from this, Bangladesh again raised the issue of extradition of Sheikh Hasina.
This meeting between the two leaders was held during the Bays of Bengal for multi -regional technical and economic cooperation in Bangkok during the Bimstec Summit (BIMSTEC) summit. This was the first time Prime Minister Modi and Yunus met, as former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was removed from power in August last year.
India’s strong reaction to the issue of minorities
Foreign Secretary Vikram Mishri gave information to the media after the meeting and said that Prime Minister Modi openly expressed open concern over the safety of minorities in Bangladesh and the atrocities against them. He clarified that India wants the Bangladesh government to investigate these matters seriously and give priority to the safety of minorities.
Appeal to avoid disputed rhetoric
The Foreign Secretary said that Prime Minister Modi also said during the meeting that any kind of rhetoric which can spoil the atmosphere should be avoided. Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s commitment to democracy, stability, peace, progress and inclusion in Bangladesh. He said that India’s relationship with Bangladesh has always been based on a public-interest approach and the public has got real benefits with cooperation between the two countries. He Prof. Yunus also assured that India is keen to further strengthen the relationship with Bangladesh under the spirit of practicality and positive cooperation.
The issue of border security and illegal infiltration also raised
During the meeting, Prime Minister Modi also discussed the security of the Indo-Bangladesh border. He insisted that across the border laws should be strictly implemented and the illegal infiltration of the night should be prevented especially to maintain the stability of the border.
After the meeting, when Foreign Secretary Mishri was asked whether Mohammad Yunus raised the issue of extradition of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, he refused to answer directly. He said that it would not be appropriate to comment on this. However, he confirmed that India has already received requests in this regard from the Bangladesh government.
On the other hand, the press secretary of Bangladesh Chief Advisor Yunus claimed that all issues were also raised by Bangladesh. He claimed that Mohammad Yunus demanded the extradition of Sheikh Hasina. He said that Sheikh Hasina gives statements from India. In response, Prime Minister Narendra Modi advised the Chief Advisor of Bangladesh to hold elections. Prime Minister Modi said that election is an important part of inclusive democracy.