India finally engaging with Bangladesh: Hindu human rights top agenda

India expressed its concerns on Monday regarding the safety of minorities, a euphemism in diplomatese for "Hindus", and the recent assaults on cultural, religious, and diplomatic sites in Bangladesh. During a meeting in Dhaka, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri engaged with his Bangladeshi counterpart, Md Touhid Hossain, reaffirming India's commitment to enhancing relations with the interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. 

Misri emphasized India's intention to collaborate closely with the authorities of the interim government in Bangladesh. India also took the opportunity to address various developments and issues, including our concerns about the safety and welfare of minorities. Additionally, India discussed some unfortunate incidents involving attacks on cultural, religious, and diplomatic properties, Misri stated at a press briefing.

Misri underscored the people-centric nature of India-Bangladesh relations, saying, historically, India has viewed this relationship as one that prioritizes the welfare of all people, and we will continue to do so in the future. He expressed appreciation to Bangladesh's Foreign Secretary Mohd. Jashimuddin for facilitating in-depth discussions and thanked his colleague Mohd Jashimuddin for engaging in discussions covering the full spectrum of issues in this vital bilateral relationship.

Misri also reflected on significant developments following the political transition in Bangladesh in August. "Since the political changes in August, there has been ongoing communication between our leaderships. The Prime Minister was the first to congratulate the chief advisor upon his appointment, and they had a very cordial telephone conversation afterwards. The chief advisor also accepted the Prime Minister’s invitation to address the third Voice of the Global South Summit held in August, he noted.

It began at the UNGA

He provided details on the recent interactions, stating that since that time, the external affairs ministers and the foreign affairs advisors have maintained communication. They convened during the UN General Assembly in New York this past September. His visit is a continuation of those discussions and represents the inaugural structured engagement at the foreign secretary level between the two nations in light of these developments.

During the talks, they examined critical areas for collaboration, including trade, connectivity, energy, and cultural exchange, with both countries reaffirming their dedication to building a constructive and mutually advantageous partnership. Misri characterized the discussions as “open, honest, and productive,” highlighting India's desire for a positive relationship with Bangladesh.

This visit signifies the first structured engagement at the foreign secretary level following these developments, he said, underlining the importance of ongoing bilateral cooperation.