New Delhi – The Indian government has expressed concern over the rising attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh, with 23 Hindus reportedly killed and 152 incidents of temple attacks recorded since August 2024, according to Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh.
In a written response to a query in the Lok Sabha, Singh further revealed that in the last two months alone (November 26, 2024 – January 25, 2025), 76 cases of attacks against Hindus were reported in Bangladesh.
Singh emphasized that India has taken serious note of these incidents and has raised its concerns with the Bangladesh government. He noted that India’s expectations regarding the protection of Hindus and other minorities were reiterated during Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra’s visit to Bangladesh on December 9, 2024.
On December 10, 2024, Bangladesh authorities announced that 70 individuals had been arrested in connection with 88 cases of attacks on minorities, and subsequent investigations confirmed 1,254 incidents of targeted violence. Singh, however, stressed that the primary responsibility for ensuring the safety of all Bangladeshi citizens, including minorities, lies with the Bangladesh government.
He assured that the Indian High Commission in Dhaka continues to closely monitor the situation and engage with the relevant authorities to ensure justice and protection for the Hindu community.
Update on Indian Nationals in Russian Armed Forces
In response to a separate query, Singh provided an update on Indian nationals serving in the Russian armed forces. Out of 127 Indian citizens recruited, the services of 97 individuals have been discontinued.
He also confirmed that 12 Indian nationals have died, with the mortal remains of seven individuals repatriated to India. In two cases, cremation was carried out in Russia as per the wishes of the deceased’s families. The Indian government remains in touch with Russian authorities to verify details of the remaining three deaths.
The developments underscore the Indian government’s ongoing diplomatic engagement in both Bangladesh and Russia, as it works to protect Indian nationals and global Hindu communities from targeted violence and conflict.