ছবি: Photo: Collected
Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser, Toufique Hossain, has accused Indian media of spreading false and misleading information regarding the treatment of minorities in Bangladesh. Speaking to the press following a briefing with foreign diplomats on December 2, Hossain pointed out that a section of the media, particularly Indian outlets, has been involved in promoting propaganda on this issue. He added that other media outlets have also been spreading misinformation, often citing Indian media reports as their source.
In his statement, Hossain clarified that while there have been some isolated incidents of minority persecution in Bangladesh, these occurrences are not indicative of any widespread or systematic violence. He emphasized that such incidents have occurred under every government and are not unique to the current administration. The government’s responsibility, he said, is to manage and control the situation, which the interim government is actively doing.
Hossain noted that despite the government’s efforts to maintain law and order, false narratives and confusion have been spread both within the country and internationally. He strongly condemned these efforts, which he claimed were aimed at creating unrest and tarnishing Bangladesh’s reputation.
The briefing at the state guest house, Padma, was attended by diplomats from countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Germany, Japan, China, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Singapore, and Pakistan, as well as representatives from international organizations and the United Nations. During the briefing, Hossain took the opportunity to present Bangladesh’s position on the issue of minority treatment, countering the claims made by some Indian media outlets.
While acknowledging that incidents of violence against minorities cannot be denied, Hossain stressed that these are isolated incidents and should not be portrayed as a reflection of the country’s overall approach to religious and cultural diversity. “We are not saying that incidents of violence against minorities have never occurred, but these are isolated events, and such things happen under every government. The government’s job is to control the situation, and the interim government is doing that,” he explained.
Hossain also reassured both local and international audiences that the Bangladesh government remains committed to maintaining peace and order in the country. He emphasized that the current government does not tolerate any form of communal violence or divisive behavior. “We want to send a message that the current government will not tolerate any communal activities. We do not want to create a divide between Hindus and Muslims. If any disturbance occurs, we will take legal action,” he said.
The Foreign Affairs Adviser’s remarks reflect a firm stance against misinformation and an unwavering commitment to national unity. Despite external pressures and the spread of false narratives, Bangladesh is determined to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of all its citizens, regardless of their religious or ethnic background. The government remains focused on managing internal challenges while ensuring the country’s stability and social harmony.
Hossain’s statement underscores the government’s dedication to transparency and its belief in addressing issues through dialogue and legal means. By refuting the claims made by some media outlets and reinforcing the importance of maintaining peace, the government seeks to strengthen its image both at home and on the international stage.
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