Desk: Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India’s concerns regarding the security of minorities, including Hindus, in Bangladesh during a meeting on Friday with Muhammad Yunus, chief advisor to the interim government of Bangladesh. Modi told Yunus that he hopes the Bangladeshi government will ensure their safety, along with conducting thorough investigations into cases of abuse against minorities. The meeting, distinct from the BIMSTEC summit of regional leaders, marks Modi’s first meeting with Bangladesh’s top leadership since former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was sidelined last August.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that Modi reiterated India’s concerns during his meeting with Yunus. He emphasized Modi’s belief in a people-centric approach to bilateral relations, highlighting the long-standing cooperation benefiting both nations. Misri conveyed Modi’s desire, based on practicality, to foster positive and constructive relations with Bangladesh. During the meeting, Modi discussed the strict enforcement of laws along the border, particularly addressing incidents of illegal border crossings during nighttime to maintain border security and stability. When asked if Yunus raised the issue of Hasina’s return, Misri did not provide a clear answer, stating that it was not appropriate to discuss the matter currently, as the Ministry has already received a request from Bangladesh.