Assam: Himanta Biswa Sarma Raises Alarm Over Hindu Persecution in Bangladesh

GUWAHATI: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma today expressed deep concern over Bangladesh's increasing persecution of Hindus and told the global community to see it and counter the threats given by religious extremism. In India, he said it would never compromise on secularism, and united efforts for protecting minority communities are made.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Sarma wrote, “What is happening to Hindus in Bangladesh should alert all of us. We cannot be safe in a society whose foundation is based on fundamentalism. India is the best example of secularism.”

Addressing mediapersons, Sarma explained the atrocities faced by minority Hindus in Bangladesh, likening them to the earlier incidents in Pakistan. He argued that the nations based on religious extremism are unable to ensure that the rights of minorities are protected. "The ruthless persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh is deeply troubling. These incidents underscore the dangers of fundamentalism. India, however, stands as a beacon of secularism and inclusivity," he said.

The Chief Minister's statement comes as India-Bangladesh relations have taken a sharp turn for the worse, following viral videos of retired Bangladeshi Army officials making provocative statements against India. One video showed a retired officer claiming that Bangladeshi forces, along with millions of citizens, would be able to capture key Indian cities like Assam and Kolkata within days.

In another video, a former military officer boasted that Bangladesh was ready to take on India if required.

Sarma's statement reiterated vigilance against extreme ideologies and reaffirmed the secular ethos of India while calling for increased efforts in protecting the rights of minorities as well as peaceful coexistence amid tensions.

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