'Expect Bangladesh to provide security': MEA as Hindus mull cancelling Durga Puja celebrations over security concerns

NEW DELHI: MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, in a media briefing on Friday said India has expressed concerns over the safety of minorities in Bangladesh on multiple occasions, even at the highest level.

He emphasised the Indian government expects that the Bangladeshi authorities will ensure the protection of minority communities.

"Many times, even at the highest level we have said that minorities should be protected there (in Bangladesh). This is our expectation that the government there will provide security to the minorities. Any incident happening during Durga Puja is not good," he said.

"Durga Puja conveys a good message and I extend my best wishes to all on this occasion," he added.

The statement comes as Bangladesh's Hindus mull cancelling Durga Puja celebrations amid security concerns.

Despite extra security measures by the government, several temples in Dakop, Khulna, received anonymous letters demanding 5 lakh takas as "tax" to allow the celebrations, with threats of severe consequences for non-compliance. Some Hindu community leaders, like Shekhar Chandra Goldar, stated that they may cancel festivities this year.

In light of these threats, some of the Hindus in the neighbhouring country have chosen to forgo cultural celebrations and musical performances during the upcoming festival. This decision was made as a form of "peaceful protest against threats and violence by hardliner outfits," according to festival organisers who spoke with TOI on Thursday.

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