The letter, sent amid strained ties between New Delhi and Dhaka, emphasized India's dedication to advancing the relationship based on mutual sensitivity to each other's interests and concerns. Modi highlighted the spirit of the 1971 Liberation War as a guiding principle for the enduring ties between India and Bangladesh.
Tensions have escalated following reports of violence against religious minorities in Bangladesh. The Ministry of External Affairs indicated that the Bangladesh government has minimized the extent of violence against Hindus, expressing concern over the situation. Religious symbols and calls for an Islamic caliphate are reportedly on the rise, prompting India to stress the need for cooperation and regional security.
The interim government in Bangladesh, led by Muhammad Yunus, has faced criticism for its handling of minority rights. The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council accused the administration of failing to protect minority groups from violence and harassment, citing numerous incidents of communal unrest resulting in deaths, assaults, and property damage. The government disputed these claims, asserting that the incidents were politically motivated rather than communal.
Internationally, concerns have been raised over the treatment of religious minorities in Bangladesh. The United Nations condemned the attacks, emphasizing the importance of protecting all citizens regardless of religious affiliation. Various countries, including India, Australia, and the United States, have expressed apprehension over the situation, urging the Bangladeshi government to ensure the safety and security of its minority communities.
Protests have erupted in response to the reported violence. In New Delhi, hundreds gathered near the Bangladesh diplomatic mission, demanding an end to the attacks on Hindus and other minorities. Veena Sikri, a former Indian ambassador to Bangladesh, highlighted the severity and sustained nature of these attacks on the Hindu minority's lives, livelihoods, homes, and businesses. The protests coincided with high-level talks between Indian and Bangladeshi officials in Dhaka aimed at mending strained relations.
The fraying of Bangladesh-India relations has also impacted cross-border interactions. Reports indicate that the number of flights and passengers traveling between Kolkata and Dhaka halved between July and November. Truckers have scaled down operations, resulting in shortages of food and other essentials. These developments underscore the deep-rooted connections between the two nations, encompassing religious, cultural, and economic ties, as well as familial relations.