Vikrant Shekhawat : Dec 21, 2024, 01:00 AM
Bangladeshi Hindus: On Friday, the Government of India informed the Rajya Sabha on cases of violence against Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh and Pakistan. Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh informed that more than 2,200 cases of attacks on minorities have been reported in Bangladesh. He said that India has expressed the expectation from the Bangladesh government to stop these incidents and ensure the safety of minorities.Figures of violence against minorities in neighboring countriesThe Minister of State for External Affairs informed that according to the data of various minority and human rights organizations, 112 cases of violence against Hindus and other minorities were registered in Pakistan this year (till October 2024). In Bangladesh, this figure was 47 in 2022, which increased to 302 in 2023. In Pakistan, 241 cases were reported in 2022, while this number decreased to 103 in 2023.India's Response and DemandsThe Minister said that India has repeatedly urged Pakistan to take effective steps to prevent religious intolerance, communal violence and persecution of minorities and to take action to ensure their rights and welfare. India has also been highlighting the poor condition of minorities in Pakistan at international forums.Dialogue and monitoring with BangladeshWith reference to Bangladesh, India has taken these incidents seriously and shared its concerns. The Minister of State for External Affairs informed that the Indian High Commission in Dhaka is constantly monitoring the situation of minorities in Bangladesh. The responsibility for the safety of all citizens, including minorities, rests with the Government of Bangladesh and India expressed hope that the Government there will take necessary steps.Visit of Foreign Secretary to BangladeshThe Minister also informed that these issues were discussed during the visit of Foreign Secretary to Bangladesh on 9 December. India reiterated that it will continue to raise its voice to ensure the safety and protection of the rights of minorities in Bangladesh.Status of cases of violence in neighbouring countriesThe Minister of State for External Affairs made it clear that apart from Pakistan and Bangladesh, no cases of violence against Hindus and minorities have been reported in other neighbouring countries. He said that India takes these incidents seriously and is ready to take action if required.India's international stanceThe Government of India not only expects its neighbouring countries to stop these incidents but also raises these issues prominently at international forums. India will continue to raise its voice to ensure that the rights of minorities are not violated.ConclusionThe increasing cases of violence against Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh and Pakistan are worrying. The Government of India has made it clear that it takes these incidents seriously and expects neighbouring countries to ensure the safety of their citizens. Taking effective steps to protect minorities is not only the responsibility of countries but it is also a reflection of their commitment to democratic values.