India Voices Concern Over Lynching of Hindu Man in Bangladesh Amid Diplomatic Tensions
India's Reaction to Lynching Incident
India has expressed deep concern regarding the lynching of a Hindu individual in Bangladesh, highlighting the ongoing 'unremitting hostility' faced by minorities in the nation. The spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs emphasized that New Delhi anticipates justice for the crime's perpetrators.
This statement follows the tragic death of Dipu Chandra Das, a factory worker, who was brutally killed on December 18 in Mymensingh district after being accused of blasphemy. Reports indicate that his body was tied to a tree and set ablaze. Authorities have detained eighteen individuals in connection with this incident.
Violence Against Minorities in Bangladesh
The spokesperson also noted that independent reports have recorded over 2,900 instances of violence against minorities in Bangladesh during the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.
Siliguri Hoteliers Halt Accommodation for Bangladeshis
In light of the strained relations between India and Bangladesh, hoteliers in Siliguri, West Bengal, have decided to cease providing lodging to Bangladeshi nationals. The Greater Siliguri Hoteliers Welfare Association issued a notice linking this decision to provocative remarks allegedly made by some Bangladeshi individuals and perceived disrespect towards the Indian flag.
Siliguri serves as a crucial entry point for Bangladeshi visitors traveling to India for tourism, medical needs, or education. Ujjwal Ghosh, the association's joint secretary, stated that this decision extends a ban initially imposed in December 2024, affecting 180 hotels in the region.
GST Reduction on Air Purifiers Under Scrutiny
The Union government informed the Delhi High Court that reducing the Goods and Services Tax on air purifiers from 18% to 5% without proper procedures could lead to significant complications. The government requested additional time to provide a comprehensive response and indicated it would inform the court about scheduling a GST Council meeting.
The Centre's counsel remarked that this is a federal tax requiring discussions among all states and Union ministries. The court, however, urged action to lower air purifier costs amid the worsening air pollution crisis in the capital, where the Air Quality Index has recently dropped to 'very poor' levels.
Internet Suspension in Chomu Following Protest
In Chomu, near Jaipur, internet services were suspended for 24 hours after four police officers sustained injuries from stones thrown during a protest. The demonstration was sparked by police efforts to remove iron railings placed outside a mosque.
The conflict arose over stones positioned along the road adjacent to the mosque. After discussions with district officials, community representatives agreed to remove the stones. However, tensions escalated when individuals attempted to install iron railings to establish a boundary after the stones were taken away.