Noida 07 August 2024: The Indian High Commission in Dhaka continues to operate amid the ongoing political crisis in Bangladesh, although non-essential staff and their families are being recalled to India, according to sources. This decision comes as the situation in Bangladesh remains volatile following the resignation of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the establishment of an interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus.
Key Updates:
- The Indian High Commission is maintaining essential services while prioritizing the safety of its personnel.
- Special flights have been arranged to bring back Indian nationals from Bangladesh, with an Air India flight recently transporting over 200 passengers from Dhaka to New Delhi.
- External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has expressed deep concern over the threat to minorities in Bangladesh and has stated that India expects the interim government to protect Indian establishments.
- The RSS and VHP have urged the Indian government to intervene and protect Sikhs and Hindus in Bangladesh, as several temples, houses, and shops belonging to the minority Hindu community have been vandalized.
- A Hindu councillor has been killed, and temples, shops, and houses have been ransacked in at least 27 districts of Bangladesh since Hasina’s ouster.
Ongoing Unrest and Protests
The situation in Bangladesh remains volatile, with reports of violent protests and unrest. Protesters have targeted government infrastructure, including police stations and the Bangladeshi Parliament. The military has been involved in the political transition, with the Army Chief confirming Hasina’s resignation and stating that the military would help form an interim government.
Concerns for Minorities and Indian Establishments
The Indian government has expressed deep concern over the threat to minorities in Bangladesh, particularly the Hindu community. There are reports of temples being set ablaze and Hindu women being assaulted. India expects the interim government to protect Indian establishments so that they can function normally once the situation improves.
Evacuation of Indian Nationals
Special flights have been arranged to bring back Indian nationals from Bangladesh, with an Air India flight recently landing in Delhi. A passenger who arrived on the flight stated that the situation in Bangladesh is “pretty much controlled” and that everything is expected to be working from the next day
