Probe attacks on minorities, avoid rhetoric: PM Modi to Bangladesh chief adviser Yunus

PM Narendra Modi, during his first meeting with Bangladesh interim regime's chief adviser Md Yunus, on Friday sent a categorical message, asking Dhaka to safeguard minority rights, including that of the Hindu community, and avoid rhetoric that vitiates the atmosphere.

The PM, at his meeting held in Bangkok on the sidelines of the Bimstec summit, urged that rhetoric that vitiates the environment is best avoided, according to officials. This was in the context of Yunus' recent remarks on northeast India and Bangladesh.

Strict enforcement of the law and prevention of illegal border crossings, especially at night, are necessary for maintaining border security and stability, Modi told Yunus. The bilateral mechanism could meet as appropriate to review and take forward ties, Modi told Yunus.

The prime minister underlined India's concerns related to the safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh, including Hindus, and expressed his expectation that the Bangladesh government would ensure their security, including by thoroughly investigating the cases of atrocities committed against them.

Modi reiterated India's support for a democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh. Enunciating India's people-centric approach to the relationship, the PM highlighted that cooperation between the two countries has brought tangible benefits to the people of both countries. He underlined India's desire to forge a positive and constructive relationship with Bangladesh based on pragmatism, according to an MEA statement.

The PM expressed his conviction that all issues of mutual interest between the two countries would continue to be addressed and resolved bilaterally through constructive discussions in the interest of their long-standing and mutually beneficial bilateral relationship, according to the MEA statement.

The PM congratulated Bangladesh on assuming the Chair of Bimstec. The leaders agreed to enhance cooperation to advance regional integration, including under the Bimstec framework.

It has been learnt that Yunus did not give any firm commitment on early elections in Bangladesh.

The Bangladesh government, too, issued a statement on the conversation between the two leaders. According to it, Yunus told Modi that Bangladesh "deeply values its relationship with India". "The deep-rooted friendship between our two countries is founded on intertwined histories, geographical proximity, and cultural affinity. We remain thankful for the unwavering support of the government and the people of India during our most challenging time in 1971," he said.

Yunus asked PM Modi about the status of Bangladesh's request for the extradition of Sheikh Hasina and said she had been making inflammatory remarks in the media and attempting to destabilise the situation in Bangladesh.


( Originally published on Apr 04, 2025 )