Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Thursday strongly condemned the killing of a Hindu man in Bangladesh and called for peaceful protests, drawing a comparison with demonstrations in India that he said were conducted without violence.
Referring to the killing of Dipu Chandra Das in Bangladesh’s Mymensingh district, Tharoor described the incident as unwarranted and unacceptable. The victim was reportedly targeted by a mob following allegations of blasphemy, triggering outrage both in Bangladesh and India.
Support for Peaceful Protests
Tharoor expressed support for nationwide protests held in India by Hindu groups in response to the incident, stating that such demonstrations were within democratic rights as long as they remained peaceful.
“I don’t think anyone has felt that these protests are getting out of hand. There has been no violence, no lynching, and certainly any attempted violence will and should be clamped down upon by our police,” he said, urging the Bangladesh government to ensure similar law enforcement measures.
Call for Stronger Action in Bangladesh
The Congress leader criticised the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government in Bangladesh, saying that expressions of regret alone were insufficient.
“They have to take action because controlling violence on the streets is the obligation of any government. They need to ensure that people feel safe again,” Tharoor said, emphasising the need for firm steps to restore public confidence.
Bangladesh authorities have since confirmed multiple arrests in connection with the case, and Yunus has publicly condemned the killing.
Impact on India-Bangladesh Relations
The incident has strained diplomatic relations between India and Bangladesh amid widespread protests by Indian Hindus in cities including New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Jammu, Agartala, and Bhopal.
Following demonstrations near the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi, Dhaka suspended visa services in three Indian cities. Both countries also summoned each other’s envoys, reflecting heightened diplomatic tensions.
Tharoor Backs Sheikh Hasina’s Stay in India
Tharoor also defended India’s decision to allow ousted Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to remain in the country, describing it as a humanitarian gesture.
“When we are being hospitable to a good friend of India, I believe the government has acted in the right spirit,” he said, adding that legal and treaty obligations should be examined carefully before any decision is taken.
His remarks come amid renewed focus on the India-Bangladesh extradition treaty, following Bangladesh’s request for Hasina’s return after a tribunal verdict against her in connection with events in 2024. Hasina has been in India since August 2024.
