Parliament Question: Protection of Minorities in Bangladesh

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO – 22 ANSWERED ON – 29/01/2026 PROTECTION OF MINORITIES IN BANGLADESH 22. DR. JOHN BRITTAS Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government has taken cognisance of reports of attacks, killings, arson and intimidation targeting minorities in Bangladesh and the deterioration of law and order; (b) the number and details of formal representations made by India to Government of Bangladesh on protection of minorities during the last two years; (c) whether these concerns were raised at the political or diplomatic level; (d) if so, the details thereof and the response thereto; (e) whether India proposes to seek concrete assurances or international monitoring to ensure safety of minorities in Bangladesh; and (f) if so, the details thereof? ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SHRI KIRTI VARDHAN SINGH) (a) to (f) The Government of India continues to monitor reports of incidents of attacks against minorities in Bangladesh, including on their homes, properties, businesses and places of worship. India has consistently raised the matter of safety and security of the minorities with the authorities in Bangladesh, at both political and diplomatic levels on several occasions. The issue was raised by the Prime Minister during his meeting with Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus on 04 April 2025 and by the External Affairs Minister during his meeting with Foreign Advisor Touhid Hossain on 16 February 2025. The issue has also been discussed during relevant discussions with other foreign interlocutors. It is the expectation of the Government of India that the interim Government of Bangladesh will discharge its responsibilities by thoroughly investigating these incidents and bring all perpetrators of killings, arson and violence against minorities to justice without excuses. The primary responsibility for the protection of life and liberty of all citizens of Bangladesh, including minorities, rests with the Government of Bangladesh. *****