PM Modi Calls For Protection Of Hindus In Bangladesh, Stresses 'Shared Aspirations' As Yunus Takes Charge

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday congratulated Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus following his appointment as head of Bangladesh’s interim government and expressed hope for the protection of Hindus in the country.

In a social media post on X, Modi also emphasised the importance of “safety and protection” for Hindus and other minority communities in Bangladesh.

“My best wishes to Professor Muhammad Yunus on the assumption of his new responsibilities. We hope for an early return to normalcy, ensuring the safety and protection of Hindus and all other minority communities,” PM Modi wrote.

Additionally, Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to collaborating with Bangladesh to achieve mutual goals of “peace, security and development” for both nations.

Yunus Takes Oath As Head Of Bangladesh’s Interim Govt

Muhammad Yunus, 84, was sworn in as the head of an interim government in Bangladesh, following the resignation and departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Hasina stepped down on Monday and fled to India in response to mass student-led protests against her government over a controversial job quota system.

The economist-turned-politician was administered the oath of office by President Mohammed Shahabuddin during a ceremony at the presidential palace, Bangabhaban.

‘Law And Order Our First Task’

In his address, Yunus pledged to “uphold, support, and protect the constitution” before an audience of political and civil society leaders, military generals, and diplomats.

He called for a return to order following weeks of violence that resulted in at least 455 deaths, urging citizens to protect each other, including minorities who have been targetted.

“Law and order is our first task… We cannot take a step forward unless we fix the law and order situation,” he asserted. “My call to the people is if you have trust in me, then make sure there will be no attacks against anyone, anywhere in the country.”

Modi’s Message To Yunus Amid Hasina’s Stay In India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s congratulatory message to Muhammad Yunus comes at a time when Bangladesh’s ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is in India.

Following her resignation, the 76-year-old Awami League leader landed at an airbase near Delhi on Monday and has since been relocated to a secure location under tight security.

Hasina is expected to stay in Delhi “for a little while,” according to her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy. In a video interview with German broadcaster Deutsche Welle on Wednesday, Joy addressed speculation about Hasina seeking asylum, dismissing reports of her plans to move to the United States or the United Kingdom as “rumours”.

Furthermore, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday stated that it is up to Hasina to decide her future plans, and it is not appropriate for India to make any decisions regarding her stay.

“Our External Affairs Minister has already explained that the approval for former PM Sheikh Hasina to come to India was given at short notice. The situation is still evolving as far as Bangladesh is concerned. It would not be appropriate to talk about her plans,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a press briefing.

Also read: WATCH: Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus Takes Oath As Head Of Bangladesh’s Interim Govt