New Delhi: India has raised strong concerns over ongoing violence against religious minorities in neighbouring countries, reporting over 3,500 incidents in Bangladesh and at least 334 major cases with Pakistan since 2021, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh informed the Rajya Sabha.
Responding to a parliamentary query, Singh said the Indian government continuously monitors reports of violence and human rights violations against religious minorities in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan.
Concerns Over Pakistan’s Treatment of Minorities
Regarding Pakistan, Singh stated, “Since 2021, the Government of India has raised at least 334 major incidents with the Government of Pakistan, urging it to uphold its constitutional duties and protect minority communities from sectarian violence and religious intolerance.”
India has also consistently highlighted these issues at international forums, including the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva.
In July, the UN Human Rights High Commissioner’s office issued a strong statement condemning Pakistan’s inaction, saying, “Religious minorities, including the Ahmadi community, face ongoing violence, extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, and attacks on places of worship.” The UN experts warned that such attacks are occurring with “tacit official complicity” and called on Pakistan to end the “pattern of impunity.”
Over 3,500 Incidents Reported in Bangladesh
Singh also reported that 3,582 incidents of violence against Hindus and other minorities have been documented in Bangladesh since 2021. India has raised its concerns with Dhaka, including at the highest diplomatic levels.
“We expect the Government of Bangladesh to take all necessary steps to ensure the safety and welfare of Hindus and other minority communities,” Singh said.
Ongoing Concerns in Bangladesh Amid Political Transition
Meanwhile, Human Rights Watch (HRW) has flagged continued human rights concerns in Bangladesh under the interim government led by Nobel laureate Mohammed Yunus, following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year rule. Despite setting up 11 reform commissions and ratifying the UN Convention on Enforced Disappearances, progress remains slow, HRW said.
Instances of mob violence and attacks on minorities persist. In July, at least 14 Hindu homes were vandalized in Rangpur district, while minority communities in the Chittagong Hill Tracts continue to face targeted violence. Arbitrary detentions and politically motivated arrests also remain widespread, with little accountability for past abuses.
HRW urged the interim government to implement reforms, end arbitrary arrests, prosecute violators, and ensure full political participation for women.
India Reaffirms Minority Protection as a Regional Priority
Concluding his statement, Singh emphasized that India consistently reminds neighboring countries that the responsibility for protecting the life, liberty, and rights of all citizens, especially minorities, lies with their respective governments.
