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India Denounces Misleading Claims Amid Protests at Bangladesh High Commission

India has strongly rejected misleading media narratives surrounding a protest outside the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi. The Ministry of External Affairs clarified that a small group gathered to protest the killing of a Hindu youth in Bangladesh, emphasizing that there was no security breach. India is closely monitoring the situation and has called for justice for the victim while urging the Bangladeshi government to protect minorities. The incident has heightened tensions and led to the suspension of Indian visa operations in Chittagong. Read on for more details about India's diplomatic stance and the ongoing situation.
 

India's Response to Protests


New Delhi, Dec 21: India has firmly dismissed what it describes as 'misleading propaganda' from certain media outlets in Bangladesh regarding a small protest that occurred outside the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi. The Indian government reiterated its dedication to ensuring the safety of all foreign diplomatic missions within its borders.


In a statement addressing media inquiries on Sunday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) explained that approximately 20 to 25 individuals had gathered on December 20 to voice their concerns over the death of Dipu Chandra Das, a Hindu youth, in Mymensingh, Bangladesh. They were demanding better protection for minorities in the neighboring nation.


The MEA noted, 'We have observed misleading narratives in some sections of the Bangladeshi media. In reality, a small group briefly assembled, shouted slogans, and was quickly dispersed by law enforcement.' They emphasized that there was no attempt to breach security or create a disturbance.


The ministry pointed out that visual evidence of the event is accessible to the public and reaffirmed India's commitment to protecting foreign missions in accordance with the Vienna Convention.


India is closely monitoring the situation in Bangladesh and has expressed its serious concerns to Bangladeshi officials regarding ongoing attacks on minority communities.


The MEA has called for swift justice for those responsible for the 'barbaric killing' of Das.


Dipu Chandra Das, a 30-year-old factory worker, was killed by a mob in Bhaluka upazila on December 18, following accusations of insulting Islam. However, local officials later reported that investigations found no evidence supporting these claims.


This incident has led to heightened tensions in the region and caused temporary disruptions on the Dhaka–Mymensingh highway.


In related developments, following protests outside the Indian Assistant High Commission in Chittagong, visa operations at the Indian Visa Application Centre have been suspended until further notice.


The unrest was reportedly triggered by the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, a leader associated with the Inqilab Mancha group, during which parts of the Indian mission premises were damaged.


Earlier this week, the MEA summoned the Bangladeshi High Commissioner Riaz Hamidullah to convey concerns regarding the worsening security situation and to caution against threats to Indian diplomatic facilities.


India has urged the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus to ensure the safety of Indian missions and take decisive action against extremist groups.