[🇧🇩] Indo-Bangla Relation: India's Regional Ambition, Geopolitical Reality, and Strategic Options For Bangladesh

[Krishna with Flute]

Did Rishi Sunak do any favor to India or Hindus? Tulsi won't either. She will serve the US interest not India.

I fully agree with you. We need a India friendly government not an Indian. This is the reason why Indians wanted Trump to come to power and not Kamala. Trump is pro India and friend of Modi. Tulsi will have full freedom to pursue her Pro Hindu agenda which is in the interest of US as well. There are some major Blocks. On one side, it is US and Europe, On one side it is Islamic nations, on other side it is India. In US and Europe block, there are 2 groups. One is leftist and another is nationalist. BJP and Republicans are both nationalist and thus they enjoys batter relation when they are in power.

 

[Saif]

Tulsi will have full freedom to pursue her Pro Hindu agenda which is in the interest of US as well.

When did pro Hindu agenda become a US interest?

 

[Krishna with Flute]

When did pro Hindu agenda become a US interest?

You see, there is nothing pro or anti. It is all about your perception of what serves your interest well. Trump believes that US and India can be batter allies and complement each other.

Trump has said that in his election speech and prior to that also. He had urged Bidden administration to Stop Indian students to go back to US after study.

 

[Vsdoc]

This is 2024 not 1970.

My post is in plain English.

I don't do Bangla.

 

[Saif]

My post is in plain English.

I don't do Bangla.

We don't have adequate number of slaughter houses in Dhaka. Things get worse during Eid Ul Adha. The pictures you have posted is the testament to that.

 

[Saif]

Don't know the meaning of ***** but guessing it to be something bad to insult me. You have no idea about me. I don't do chest beating about my family and wealth like you.

 

[Bilal9]

Guys thread now open but will be locked again if I even sniff anything unkosher.

 

[Saif]

Focus on opportunities, challenges in Bangladesh-India ties: Roundtable

Speakers at a roundtable discussion on Saturday explored the evolving dynamics of Bangladesh-India relations, with a focus on identifying opportunities, addressing challenges and charting a constructive path forward. They observed that the relationship is not defined by just a few days or mon

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Focus on opportunities, challenges in Bangladesh-India ties: Roundtable
UNB
Published :
Nov 30, 2024 18:48
Updated :
Nov 30, 2024 18:48

Speakers at a roundtable discussion on Saturday explored the evolving dynamics of Bangladesh-India relations, with a focus on identifying opportunities, addressing challenges and charting a constructive path forward.

They observed that the relationship is not defined by just a few days or months and remained optimistic that it will improve in the near future.

The South Asian Institute of Policy and Governance (SIPG), in collaboration with the Department of Political Science and Sociology (PSS) at North South University (NSU), hosted the discussion titled "Bangladesh-India Relations: Expectations, Challenges, and Future Prospects."

The event, held at NSU's Syndicate Hall, brought together a panel of experts and stakeholders to discuss the key issues between the two countries.

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, while speaking as the chief guest, underscored the critical need for fostering mutual trust and engaging in open, constructive dialogue as a means to overcome the existing challenges and unlock the full potential of Bangladesh-India bilateral cooperation.

He emphasised that the true measure of Bangladesh's success in enhancing bilateral ties with India would be rooted in national consensus and unity, which, he believes, will serve as the litmus test for the country's future progress in this regard.

The discussion featured a panel, including Dr SM Asaduzzaman Ripon, BNP Vice Chairman, Barrister Asaduzzaman Fuaad, joint member secretary of AB Party; Saquib Ali, former diplomat; Lt Gen (retd) Mohammad Mahfuzur Rahman, former Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division; and Prof Dr Mohammad Abdur Rob, Vice-Chancellor of Manarat International University.

These experts brought a range of perspectives to the discussion, addressing both the challenges and opportunities in strengthening bilateral relations between Bangladesh and India.

The panel was moderated by Dr M Jashim Uddin, Associate Prof at NSU's Department of Political Science and Sociology, noted that many Bangladeshis feel that the country has not received the expected support from India following the Liberation War of 1971.

He also highlighted the current tensions and challenges in the Bangladesh-India relationship, reflecting on how these historical and contemporary issues have shaped public perceptions and diplomatic efforts. He stated that a much-anticipated national unity is needed, giving the highest priority to our national interests.

In his opening remarks, Prof Sk. Tawfique M Haque, Director of SIPG, set the tone for the discussion by providing a comprehensive analysis of the historical, political, and economic factors that have shaped Bangladesh-India relations.

He stressed the importance of building a national consensus in Bangladesh to develop a more constructive, forward-looking relationship with India.

Barrister Fuaad emphasised the role of lobbying and political maneuvering in shaping Bangladesh-India relations. He argued that external pressures and vested interests have often complicated diplomatic efforts and undermined the spirit of cooperation.

Saquib Ali highlighted the lingering effects of colonial trauma as a significant barrier to smoother relations between the two nations. He observed that, historically, Bangladesh's leadership has often prioritized political party interests over national interests, with the people's welfare coming second.

Lt Gen (retd) Mohammad Mahfuzur Rahman brought attention to the growing influence of China in the region, noting that this has placed the Bangladesh-India relationship in a particularly delicate position.

Prof Dr Mohammad Abdur Rob echoed similar concerns, stating that India's regional aspirations and aggressive measures complicate efforts to build a cooperative relationship with Bangladesh.

Asaduzzaman Ripon expressed deep concern over the continued use of extremist narratives in Indian media, noting that these narratives, often propagated by previous regimes, continue to shape perceptions in both countries.

He also commended the students of North South University, particularly for their role in the July Revolution.

In his closing remarks, Prof Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, NSU Vice-Chancellor expressed a hopeful outlook on the future of Bangladesh-India relations.

Prof Chowdhury reaffirmed NSU's commitment to hosting meaningful dialogues that contribute to shaping the political and economic landscape of the region.

Acknowledging the deep historical, cultural, and economic ties between Bangladesh and India since 1971, Prof Chowdhury noted that while these connections are significant, it is also essential to address the issue of external interference in Bangladesh's internal affairs.​

 

[Saif]

Modi meets top cops on Bangladesh, Myanmar border security issues

India's emerging security concerns along the border with Bangladesh and Myanmar were discussed at a two-day conference of the country's top police officials addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Bhubaneshwar, the capital of Odisha

www.thedailystar.net

Modi meets top cops on Bangladesh, Myanmar border security issues

File photo

India's emerging security concerns along the border with Bangladesh and Myanmar were discussed at a two-day conference of the country's top police officials addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Bhubaneshwar, the capital of Odisha.

During the conference which ended today, "in-depth discussions were held on existing and emerging challenges to national security, including counter terrorism, left wing extremism, cybercrime, economic security, immigration, coastal security and narco-trafficking, " a readout issued by the Prime Minister's Office this evening said.

"Deliberations were also held on emerging security concerns along the border with Bangladesh and Myanmar, trends in urban policing and strategies for countering malicious narratives," it said adding "a review was undertaken of ……the security situation in the neighborhood," according to the readout.

The prime minister, who interacted with the security officials on the first day and spoke at the concluding session of the conference today, "offered valuable insights during the proceedings and laid a roadmap for the future," said the statement.

In his concluding address, Modi noted that wide-ranging discussions had been held during the conference on national and international dimensions of security challenges and expressed satisfaction on the counter strategies which had emerged from the discussions, it said.

The conference was also attended by Home Minister Amit Shah, principal secretary to the PM, national security adviser, ministers of state for home and central home secretary.

The conference, held in a hybrid format, was also attended by director generals of police and inspector generals of police of all states and federally-ruled territories and heads of the central armed police forces, physically and by over 750 officers of various ranks virtually from all states and federally-ruled territories.​

 

[Saif]

India must understand what the people of Bangladesh want

The tensions between the two countries have emerged because India has not been able to accept the reality of Bangladesh's domestic political scenario

en.prothomalo.com

India must understand what the people of Bangladesh want

M Humayun Kabir, diplomat and former ambassador of Bangladesh, is now the president of Bangladesh Enterprise Institute (BEI). In an interview with Prothom Alo's Sohrab Hassan, he talks about the tensions prevailing in Bangladesh-India relations in the wake of the Awami League government's exit following the 5 August student-people's uprising.

Prothom Alo: It has been three and a half months since the interim government came to the helm. Where do relations between Bangladesh and India stand?

M Humayun Kabir: I feel the complications are growing. The relations between the two countries are multidimensional and diverse. The economic activities are more or less one-sided at the moment. We are importing power and diesel. Rice, onions and potatoes are coming in from India. But no commodities are being exported from Bangladesh.

As neighboring countries, the relations between the two are political, diplomatic and commercial. We have long standing cultural ties too. Many Bangladeshi students and job aspirants go to Delhi to get their visas to travel to a third country. Over the past 15 years India issued visas easily. Since August this has become very restricted. Easing the visa process could be a first step for India to display its goodwill.

Prothom Alo: Why have the tensions between the two countries emerged?

M Humayun Kabir: The tensions between the two countries have emerged because India has not been able to accept the reality of Bangladesh's domestic political scenario after 5 August. I feel that both sides must come forward to resolve the problem. Bangladesh must be alert so that the situation does not get out of hand. The problems between the two countries have to be resolved diplomatically. Decisions must be taken on the basis of reality and need. Agitation must not be created in the public sphere.

Prothom Alo : Certain recent events have caused the situation to deteriorate. For example, during the demonstrations in front of Bangladesh's deputy high commission in Kolkata, BJP supporters set fire to Bangladesh's flag ...

M Humayun Kabir: This is an alarming incident. Firstly, the host country has the responsibility to protect the diplomat mission of any country as well as its staff. Bangladesh's foreign ministry has protested against the incident and demanded the safety of its diplomats be ensured. We hope India does what is needed in this regard. As neighbours, we cannot ignore each other. We need India and India needs Bangladesh.

The problem is that India's policymakers have not been able to accept the huge political change in Bangladesh. They had thought that keeping up relations with one party in Bangladesh would render bilateral relations sustainable.

Prothom Alo: News of India's national flag being desecrated in Bangladesh has appeared on social media and in the Indian press. They have reason to be angered by this ...

M Humayun Kabir: This is totally unwarranted. All sides must behave sensitively. No one should do anything that can increase social unrest and mistrust.

Prothom Alo : Do you feel that there is any shortcoming on the part of Bangladesh in its efforts to increase understanding with India?

M Humayun Kabir: I won't say there is any shortcoming from our side. After the change in the political scenario, chief adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus delivered a clear message about taking bilateral relations ahead on the basis of equality and equal standing. He invited Indian journalists to come and see the situation in Bangladesh on ground. And many did come.

While speaking to correspondents of the Indian press, the chief adviser placed emphasis on improving bilateral ties. Bangladesh had made an effort for the chief adviser to meet Indian prime minister Narendra Modi in September during the UN General Assembly. That didn't happen. However, a meeting did take place between India's foreign minister Jaishankar and Bangladesh's foreign ministry adviser Md Touhid Hossain. We have not seen much headway in the diplomatic arena since then. That should have happened.

Prothom Alo: India has concerns about geopolitical matters too. They feel if Bangladesh's relations with Pakistan improve, their geopolitical interests will be affected ...

M Humayun Kabir: I see no reason for India to have any anxiety concerning Bangladesh's relations with Pakistan. It is not right of them to see Bangladesh's relations with Pakistan or any other country in a negative light.

Realistically speaking, Bangladesh will not have multidimensional relations with Pakistan as it has with India. Neither are competitors in the matter of economic relations. I would say this should not be a matter of any excess concern for India.

While FOC is a routine matter, the FOC with India this time holds different significance. This meeting is very important in bringing stability to relations between the two countries in the prevailing circumstances.

Prothom Alo : There is anti-India talk in Bangladesh too...

M Humayun Kabir: The Bangladesh government does not spread any anti-Indian propaganda. Certain quarters may do so. I would say, the government and the mainstream political parties have displayed responsible behaviour. But it is different in India. They must stop the anti-Bangladesh campaign spearheaded there by the government, the media and on social media. That is the way to improve relations.

I feel that is the way to make things normal. Bangladesh will meet India half way if India makes a positive move. It has done so in the past. The non-government think-tanks can play a role in this regard too.

Prothom Alo : So where does the problem lie?

M Humayun Kabir: The problem is that India's policymakers have not been able to accept the huge political change in Bangladesh. They had thought that keeping up relations with one party in Bangladesh would render bilateral relations sustainable. The people here have not been too pleased with their interference in Bangladesh's domestic affairs. Everyone is well aware of how India's foreign secretary Sujata Singh influenced the elections in Bangladesh in 2014. We saw a repetition of this in the 2018 and 2024 elections too.

India must understand what the people of Bangladesh want. The people here were infuriated with the Bangladesh government as they had not been able to vote in three consecutive elections. Those in power did not tolerate any opposition whatsoever. It was not only political leaders and activists who were repressed, but the common people too. That was what led to the August student-people's uprising. In no way can this be linked to bilateral relations with India.

Prothom Alo: What is the way out of this stagnant state?

M Humayun Kabir: The solution to these bilateral relations must be approached in the light of reality. The people of both countries will benefit from this.

Bangladesh's tourists cannot visit India as they have stopped issuing visas. Patients can't go there like before for medical treatment. The people of Bangladesh are being affected and India is being economically affected too, with no tourists or patients going there from Bangladesh.

Prothom Alo : Talks between the two countries are scheduled to be held on 10 December at a foreign secretary level. Bangladesh is hopeful about this meeting, as has been reflected in the statement of the foreign adviser. The Indian foreign ministry's spokesperson, in the meantime, has said the time and date has not been fixed yet. It will be announced once this is fixed.

M Humayun Kabir: A proposal has been sent to Delhi for the foreign secretary level meeting (Foreign Office Consultant - FOC) to be held on 10 December in Dhaka. Sources in Delhi say that they will respond once the day and the time is fixed. Keeping mutual respect intact, now a space for trust must be created. That is why I feel that it is important for this meeting to be held.

There is no alternative to talks to resolve any problems between the two countries. If there are any misunderstandings, those must be resolved through talks. If talks are held, then the matter of visas for Bangladeshis will be resolved too. If the communication between the people of the two countries increases, trade will increase too. While FOC is a routine matter, the FOC with India this time holds different significance. This meeting is very important in bringing stability to relations between the two countries in the prevailing circumstances.

Prothom Alo : India diplomats joined the recent Bay of Bengal Conversation too. Did you feel there was any sign of them accepting the new reality in Bangladesh?

M Humayun Kabir: Certain issues were raised, but not all. There should be more such discussions.

Prothom Alo : Will the Teesta water sharing issue, renewing the Gangers water sharing treaty, border killings and other pending issues between the two countries be put on the back burner?

M Humayun Kabir: These matters may be raised if bilateral talks are held. But at the moment it is important to iron out the tensions between the two countries, that is, to restore stability to bilateral ties.

Prothom Alo : India is expressing its concern, claiming that the minorities are being repressed in Bangladesh. India's foreign minister Jaishankar even made a statement in Lok Sabha to this end. How do you see this?

M Humayun Kabir: He may have made this statement to calm the unrest in India's domestic political arena. At the same time he also clarified their own stand. As for India monitoring the state of minorities in Bangladesh, everyone should take a look at themselves first. Here too we need to take necessary measures to ensure that the safety of the minorities is not disrupted. The problem is that the minority problem in Bangladesh is being over exaggerated by the India at an official and unofficial level.

Prothom Alo : But minorities did come under attack in Bangladesh after the 5 August changes came about.

M Humayun Kabir: I am not denying that certain incidents took place. But the response of the government and the people must be taken into account. I will mention three points here. There was no government for three days after 5 August. After the government took over on 8 August, the law and order situation improved rapidly. The political parties, student leadership and the public, alongside the government, came forward to protect the minorities.

Secondly, during the Durga Puja festivities, the government took up a stern stance to ensure peace. Political parties, student organisation and civil society kept vigil. And so there were no untoward incidents.

The third point is, when leader of the Sammilita Sanatani Jagoran Mancha, Chinmoy Krishna Das, was not granted bail, his followers created a chaotic situation. A lawyer was killed. The government took extreme cautionary measures and so the situation remained calm and is still so. It cannot be said that the government fell short in any way to ensure the safety of the minorities.

Prothom Alo: So what is the solution?

M Humayun Kabir: The solution is for India to take necessary measures in keeping with Bangladesh's political reality. The problem is they still cannot accept this reality. I have spoken to several Indian diplomats after 5 August. They expressed their surprise at what had happened in Bangladesh. Several newspapers and television channels also asked for my views. I told them, this was a spontaneous movement by the students, and people from all walks of life supported this. Their perception that Pakistan's ISI, China and the US were behind this, is baseless.

A telephone call from the chief adviser led to the return of over 50 Bangladeshi expatriates detained in UAE. Our labour market had been closed in Malaysia. At the behest of the chief adviser, that has reopened.

Prothom Alo: What role can a third country play in keeping Bangladesh and India's relations normal? We saw when Awami League was in power, US played a role in this matter.

M Humayun Kabir: After the change in Bangladesh's political scenario, the US assistant secretary of state Donald Lu came to Bangladesh via Delhi. After leaving Dhaka, he went to Delhi again. While no side made any official statement in this regard, we feel that talks were held on matters of shared interest. The matter would become much easier if India accepted the reality in Bangladesh. India has some basis for its concern, but then again, some of its concerns are baseless. All this can be sorted out through dialogue. There is no alternative to dialogue to assuage our concerns and the concerns of India.

Prothom Alo : There was a historical response from the outside world to the change in Bangladesh's political scenario. Greetings poured in as the government led by Dr Muhammad Yunus was formed. But now three and a half months have passed and there have not been any significant developments in the area of foreign policy.

M Humayun Kabir: The European Union, United States, China, Japan and other big powers of the world displayed a positive response. In particular, the image generated by Dr Muhammad Yunus during the UN General Assembly, was extremely inspiring. We cannot say that we did not gain anything from this. A telephone call from the chief adviser led to the return of over 50 Bangladeshi expatriates detained in the United Arab Emirates. Our labour market had been closed in Malaysia. At the behest of the chief adviser, that has reopened.

Prothom Alo : But we see a negative situation in the area of investments. Foreign investment isn't coming in as expected.

M Humayun Kabir: Political stability is required in the country for investment. We have not been able to create that circumstance as yet. Everything is topsy-turvy.

All countries want returns on their investment. Hopefully the political situation will become normal. The government has proposed many reforms. If these can be finalised and the country proceeds towards the election, we can hope for political stability.

Prothom Alo : Thank you.

M Humayun Kabir: Thank you too.​

 

[Bilal9]

I think there definitely is effort on the Bangladesh side to resolve issues and mutual distrust given the current state of affairs between both countries, but one cannot say the same exists from the Indian side.

Their govt. leaning media (which is 95% of total) is intent on untruths, lies and harsh uncouth accusations (without fact-checking I might add) which is unprecedented. One only has to watch some of their virulent media hosts to see what I am talking about. Their efforts at whipping up the fervor of Bangladesh-hate is rather successful.

In short one can say (per Mahmudur Rahman, one of my well-spoken level-headed journalists and role models from Bangladesh), that the ouster of Hasina was seen as the biggest failure of Indian foreign policy in fifty or so years. This was hard for Indians (especially BJP supremos) to accept.

Instead of accepting reality and questioning BJP on why this happened and how it stands, Indian politicians in general have been intent on,
a) threats of invading Bangladesh, and also
b) threats of lopping off Bangladesh territory to create Hindu majority countries, based on flimsy pretexts of Hindu oppression in Bangladesh (playing "Hindu" card).

We know where these threats will go, which is nowhere.

What has happened has happened and Indians must accept the failure of their foreign policy. One cannot reverse this now.

I'd ask Indian politicians of major political parties to consider what is practical and feasible for the future and where mutual prosperity lies in the relation of both countries.

This is what we should focus on, instead of blind hate and baseless accusations coming from India.

 

[Krishna with Flute]

I think there definitely is effort on the Bangladesh side to resolve issues and mutual distrust given the current state of affairs between both countries, but one cannot say the same exists from the Indian side.

Their govt. leaning media (which is 95% of total) is intent on untruths, lies and harsh uncouth accusations (without fact-checking I might add) which is unprecedented. One only has to watch some of their virulent media hosts to see what I am talking about. Their efforts at whipping up the fervor of Bangladesh-hate is rather successful.

In short one can say (per Mahmudur Rahman, one of my well-spoken level-headed journalists and role models from Bangladesh), that the ouster of Hasina was seen as the biggest failure of Indian foreign policy in fifty or so years. This was hard for Indians (especially BJP supremos) to accept.

Instead of accepting reality and questioning BJP on why this happened and how it stands, Indian politicians in general have been intent on,
a) threats of invading Bangladesh, and also
b) threats of lopping off Bangladesh territory to create Hindu majority countries, based on flimsy pretexts of Hindu oppression in Bangladesh (playing "Hindu" card).

We know where these threats will go, which is nowhere.

What has happened has happened and Indians must accept the failure of their foreign policy. One cannot reverse this now.

I'd ask Indian politicians of major political parties to consider what is practical and feasible for the future and where mutual prosperity lies in the relation of both countries.

This is what we should focus on, instead of blind hate and baseless accusations coming from India.

Hindus are reduced to 7% from around 30%. Their temple are being burnt, their women are raped, and you say that it is false. You yourself said earlier that Now Chanting of Jai Shri Ram shall be banned in BD. Here, you are lying to mislead the people by saying that Hindus are BD citizens, and all these stories of Hindu Atrocities are fake.

 

[Vsdoc]

Hindus are reduced to 7% from around 30%. Their temple are being burnt, their women are raped, and you say that it is false. You yourself said earlier that Now Chanting of Jai Shri Ram shall be banned in BD. Here, you are lying to mislead the people by saying that Hindus are BD citizens, and all these stories of Hindu Atrocities are fake.

Taqiya

 

[Krishna with Flute]

Taqiya

YEs, but Takia is also used in some places. Taqiyya is also used.

 

[Vsdoc]

YEs, but Takia is also used in some places. Taqiyya is also used.

Only, in their case, sadly for them, its going to be permanent Taqiya.

Coz they can keep dreaming about tiding over a weak phase till they are less vulnerable.

We literally have our foot on their collective neck.

And they know it. Hence the squirming about how peaceful and secular they truly are.

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh wants friendly, normal relations with India

Foreign adviser says he hopes that scheduled Foreign Office Consultations with India will take place

www.thedailystar.net

Bangladesh wants friendly, normal relations with India
Says foreign adviser, hopes scheduled Foreign Office Consultations with India will take place

Photo: AFP

Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain today said Bangladesh wants to see a "normal and friendly" relationship protecting mutual interests with India.

He also said he sees West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's remarks on Bangladesh "as usual that goes with her persona".

Mamata on Sunday urged the central government of India to seek the deployment of UN peacekeeping forces in Bangladesh amid alleged attacks on Hindus, according to the Indian media.

While responding to a question at a media briefing, Adviser Touhid said politicians often make such remarks on various topics, but it was not a "right move" for Mamata. "I would like to see this as Mamata-like remarks. I don't understand why she has made such remarks."

Earlier, the adviser briefed the foreign diplomats stationed in Dhaka at state guest house Padma about the allegations of attacks on religious minorities. He explained the government's position and described the situation on the grounds.

"We are not saying that there are no such incidents of attacks on minorities, but those are isolated and happen more or less during all regimes," Touhid said.

The government conveyed to the diplomats that religious harmony is part of the society and the government is firmly determined to maintain it.

But a section of the media, especially in India, is engaged in propaganda on the issue, the adviser said. He said there are efforts domestically and globally to give an impression that the country is heading towards a deteriorated situation.

"We should not forget that there is a global campaign (against the government) by a certain group," he said, adding that the government will handle it with an iron hand if anyone tries to create chaos in the country.

Responding to a question, he said they did not say anything specific about India, but the media reports came up. A representative of the Indian High Commission in Dhaka was also present at the briefing.

Responding to a question, Touhid said they shared with the diplomats under what circumstances former ISKCON leader Chandan Kumar Dhar, alias Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, was arrested. He is now in jail.

He said the government will not allow any communal violence in the country and it sees all its citizens equally.

"We did not say that there is no problem in the country. There are issues, and we're trying to fix them," the adviser said, adding that they have successfully addressed issues in many areas.

Touhid acknowledged that there has been a change in the dynamics of bilateral relations with India since the August 5 political changeover.

Asked whether the scheduled Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) with India will be held this month, he said, "I think so."​

 

[Bilal9]

Hindus are reduced to 7% from around 30%. Their temple are being burnt, their women are raped, and you say that it is false. You yourself said earlier that Now Chanting of Jai Shri Ram shall be banned in BD. Here, you are lying to mislead the people by saying that Hindus are BD citizens, and all these stories of Hindu Atrocities are fake.

Educated Hindus get better opportunities in India (or other countries) and there is no stopping them from leaving for India if they wish. This will continue. That is exactly the reason. No one is torturing them.

This is not a fault of the Bangladeshi Govt. or the majority Muslims that Hindus leave of their own free will,

There may be some stray incidents of Hindu homes being attacked after Aug 5 revolution and regime change (mainly by AL people to create bad blood and blame the uprising folks), but they are all connected to political animosity (if that), not religion. Muslim AL people were attacked en masse, now only if they're Hindu it becomes a big deal.

Hindu homes were also burnt during AL rule - but there was no peep heard from India at that time. Kind of suspicious - one would think.

 

[Bilal9]

Only, in their case, sadly for them, its going to be permanent Taqiya.

Coz they can keep dreaming about tiding over a weak phase till they are less vulnerable.

We literally have our foot on their collective neck.

And they know it. Hence the squirming about how peaceful and secular they truly are.

Keep on daydreaming.

 

[Krishna with Flute]

Bangladesh wants friendly, normal relations with India

Foreign adviser says he hopes that scheduled Foreign Office Consultations with India will take place

www.thedailystar.net

Bangladesh wants friendly, normal relations with India
Says foreign adviser, hopes scheduled Foreign Office Consultations with India will take place

View attachment 11288
Photo: AFP

Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain today said Bangladesh wants to see a "normal and friendly" relationship protecting mutual interests with India.

He also said he sees West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's remarks on Bangladesh "as usual that goes with her persona".

Mamata on Sunday urged the central government of India to seek the deployment of UN peacekeeping forces in Bangladesh amid alleged attacks on Hindus, according to the Indian media.

While responding to a question at a media briefing, Adviser Touhid said politicians often make such remarks on various topics, but it was not a "right move" for Mamata. "I would like to see this as Mamata-like remarks. I don't understand why she has made such remarks."

Earlier, the adviser briefed the foreign diplomats stationed in Dhaka at state guest house Padma about the allegations of attacks on religious minorities. He explained the government's position and described the situation on the grounds.

"We are not saying that there are no such incidents of attacks on minorities, but those are isolated and happen more or less during all regimes," Touhid said.

The government conveyed to the diplomats that religious harmony is part of the society and the government is firmly determined to maintain it.

But a section of the media, especially in India, is engaged in propaganda on the issue, the adviser said. He said there are efforts domestically and globally to give an impression that the country is heading towards a deteriorated situation.

"We should not forget that there is a global campaign (against the government) by a certain group," he said, adding that the government will handle it with an iron hand if anyone tries to create chaos in the country.

Responding to a question, he said they did not say anything specific about India, but the media reports came up. A representative of the Indian High Commission in Dhaka was also present at the briefing.

Responding to a question, Touhid said they shared with the diplomats under what circumstances former ISKCON leader Chandan Kumar Dhar, alias Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, was arrested. He is now in jail.

He said the government will not allow any communal violence in the country and it sees all its citizens equally.

"We did not say that there is no problem in the country. There are issues, and we're trying to fix them," the adviser said, adding that they have successfully addressed issues in many areas.

Touhid acknowledged that there has been a change in the dynamics of bilateral relations with India since the August 5 political changeover.

Asked whether the scheduled Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) with India will be held this month, he said, "I think so."​

That is a good statement but let us see whether that reflects into their behavior. If oppression of Hindus does not stop, what he says is just a lip service.

 

[Krishna with Flute]

Only, in their case, sadly for them, its going to be permanent Taqiya.

Coz they can keep dreaming about tiding over a weak phase till they are less vulnerable.

We literally have our foot on their collective neck.

And they know it. Hence the squirming about how peaceful and secular they truly are.

They are worse than even Arab Muslims. We have seen this since 1947 and even before that. We saw that in Kashmir as well.