Dhaka: For the first time since the turmoil erupted in Bangladesh, Dhaka on Tuesday acknowledged 88 incidents of communal violence against minorities, primarily Hindus.
The neighbouring country has been witnessing violence against minorities since the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August.
Interim government head Muhammad Yunus’ press secretary Shafiqul Alam reportedly stated that 70 people had been arrested in such incidents of violence against minorities.
This comes a day after Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri flagged regrettable incidents of attacks on minorities during his visit to Dhaka. He also conveyed India’s concerns, including those related to the safety of minorities, during his meetings with the leadership in Bangladesh.
Alam claimed 88 cases had been filed related to minorities between August 5 to and October 22. “The number of cases and arrests is likely to increase as new incidents of violence have also been reported in (northeastern Sunamganj, (central) Gazipur, and other areas,” he added, according to reports. Alam also stated that details regarding the incidents that took place after October 22 would be shared soon.
US wants both countries to resolve differences peacefully
The United States had urged India and Bangladesh to resolve their differences peacefully. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said, “We want to see all parties resolve their disagreements peacefully.” He made the statement in response to a question about the recent visit of India’s foreign secretary to Bangladesh during his daily press briefing on Tuesday.
