Staff Reporter / New Delhi
India has called upon Bangladesh to take all steps for the protection of minorities. Addressing media in New Delhi on Friday, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India has consistently and strongly raised with the Bangladesh government the threats and targeted attacks on Hindus and other minorities.
He said India’s position on the matter is clear that the interim government must live up to its responsibility of protecting all minorities. The spokesperson expressed concern at the surge of extremist rhetoric, increasing incidents of violence and provocation.
He further stated that these developments cannot be dismissed only as media exaggeration and noted that ISKCON is a globally well-regarded organization with a strong record of social service. On arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, Mr Jaiswal noted that legal processes are underway.
He said New Delhi expects that these processes will deal with the case in a just, fair and transparent manner, ensuring full respect for the legal rights of all concerned. Replying to a question on US prosecutors charging an Indian businessman of bribery, the spokesperson said this is a legal matter involving private firms and individuals and the US Department of Justice.
He pointed out that there are established procedures and legal avenues in such cases. He also said that Indian government was not informed in advance on the issue. Mr Jaiswal further said that any request by a foreign government for service of summons or arrest warrant is part of mutual legal assistance. He said such requests are examined on merits and India has not received any request on this case from the US side.