Dhaka: A crown gifted by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple in Bangladesh has been stolen, prompting diplomatic concerns and calls for a swift investigation.
The theft took place on Thursday afternoon at the temple located in Satkhira’s Shyamnagar, leaving Indian officials and local authorities scrambling for a response.
The High Commission of India in Bangladesh expressed deep concern over the incident, urging the Bangladeshi government to investigate the theft, recover the crown, and take action against the perpetrators.
Indian sources indicate that the High Commission in Dhaka is in close contact with Bangladeshi authorities regarding the matter.
The stolen crown, crafted from silver and plated with gold, holds significant religious and cultural value, having been presented by Modi during his visit to Bangladesh in March 2021. This makes the theft particularly sensitive.
Local police inspector Taizul Islam reported that authorities are currently reviewing CCTV footage to identify the thief.
The incident occurred between 2:00 PM and 2:30 PM, shortly after the temple priest had completed the day’s worship.
The Jeshoreshwari Temple, one of the 51 Shakti Peeths revered in Hindu tradition, attracts devotees from both India and Bangladesh.
The prominence of the temple and the high-profile nature of Modi’s gift have elevated this theft to a matter of international concern.
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