In the wake of recent communal violence in Bangladesh, Nahid Islam called on India to show greater empathy and support for the victims. Islam questioned India’s silence on the issue and urged that the focus should shift toward collaborative efforts to ensure justice for those affected, rather than exacerbating tensions.
BY PC Bureau
In an interview with BBC Hindi, Nahid Islam, Bangladesh’s interim government’s Adviser for Information and Broadcasting, addressed pressing issues concerning minority protection, India-Bangladesh relations, and the recent communal violence in Bangladesh. He also accused Indian media of spreading “false information.”
Here are some key points from the conversation:
On India’s Concerns for Bangladeshi Minorities
Responding to India’s frequent expressions of concern regarding the safety of Bangladesh’s minorities, Islam affirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to protecting all citizens, stating, “India doesn’t need to worry; their focus should be on offering support to address these challenges constructively.” Islam also criticized Indian media for spreading what he referred to as “false information” about Bangladesh’s government, calling for discussions rooted in facts and mutual understanding.
India’s Silence on Recent Violence
When questioned about India’s stance on the violence in Bangladesh last July-August, Islam hinted at frustration, stating, “India has remained silent, despite support shown by other nations for Bangladesh’s people.” He suggested that India’s response to these incidents would be positively noted by Bangladeshis, especially if it leads to accountability for those responsible.
Addressing Minority Concerns in Bangladesh
Asked about reported mistreatment of minority groups over the past few months, Islam acknowledged the hardships faced by some communities but emphasized government efforts to prevent further escalation. “During Durga Puja, potential violence was anticipated, but with ample security measures, the celebrations passed peacefully,” he noted, underscoring government outreach to reassure minority communities of their safety.
Worries Over Extremist Influence After Awami League
On concerns about potential extremist influence if the Awami League loses power, Islam countered the narrative that extremist groups could rise without the ruling party’s governance. “Bangladeshis desire a democratic government, and the notion that extremism will thrive without the Awami League is an oversimplified narrative,” he argued, urging India to strengthen ties with Bangladesh’s people rather than aligning solely with a specific political faction.
Economic Partnerships and Project Evaluations
Regarding ongoing development projects between India and Bangladesh, Islam stressed that these initiatives should transcend party politics. “Our work with India benefits both nations, not just a single party,” he said. Islam clarified that Bangladesh is currently reviewing all foreign investments, not just those from India, to identify potential corruption risks and ensure projects benefit the country.
As Bangladesh navigates its internal politics and evolving relationships, Islam’s statements underscore the country’s desire for stability and cooperation with India, rooted in shared goals and a commitment to democracy.
