Using the "minority persecution" narrative, Delhi is trying to rehabilitate the 'fascist' Awami League and disrupt Bangladesh's democratic and nation-building process, Information Adviser Nahid Islam said on Tuesday.
In a post on X, the adviser wrote, “From the start, we have emphasized that the Indian government must stop viewing Bangladesh through the lens of the Awami League and establish a new relationship based on equity, fairness, and mutual respect.”
Tensions between Bangladesh and India grow over attack on Agartala mission
In the post, the adviser wrote: "India’s ruling elite is engaging in divisive politics and anti-Bangladesh rhetoric. Bangladesh shares historical and cultural ties with West Bengal, Tripura, and Assam; they are our stakeholders. During the ongoing uprising in Bangladesh, students from Kolkata and Delhi stood in solidarity with us, protesting against Sheikh Hasina’s atrocities. These democracy-loving people of India are our friends. However, India’s ruling elite and Hindutva forces do not want such democratic relations and harmony. They perceive Bangladesh’s uprising and the political awakening of its students as a threat. As a result, they are fostering hatred against Bangladesh.
Bangladesh is committed to ensuring full citizenship rights, dignity, and security for all minority communities, including Hindus. It was during the Awami League’s tenure that minorities faced the highest level of persecution, yet Delhi has unconditionally supported the Awami League. While India fails to ensure the rights of its own minorities, it has provided shelter and support to the Awami League, a party that persecuted minorities and committed genocide in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh, India affirm commitment to maintain friendly ties amid tensions
By continuing to provide refuge and support to Sheikh Hasina, a fugitive responsible for genocide and child killings, the Indian government risks undermining shared democratic values. India must not forget that its stability and integrity are closely linked with the stability and integrity of Bangladesh.
The BJP is attempting to turn Bangladesh into an internal political issue for India. If this happens, it will be detrimental to India’s domestic politics.
“Anti-Bangladesh and anti-Muslim politics will not serve India’s national interest or contribute to its unity. Therefore, we call on India to cease false propaganda against Bangladesh and uphold harmony and respect for democracy," he concluded.
BNP for seeking UN peacekeeping support for Bangladesh diplomatic staff in India