India denounces demolition of Hindu temple in Dhaka, says dismayed that such incidents continue to recur
New Delhi, June 26 (UNI) India today denounced the demolition of a Hindu temple in Dhaka following pressure from an Islamist mob, saying it is the responsibility of the Interim Government in Dhaka to provide security to the temple.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, in his media briefing, said that India is dismayed that such incidents continue to recur in Bangladesh.
'We understand that extremists were clamouring for demolishing the Durga temple in Khilkhet, Dhaka.
'The interim government, instead of providing security to the temple, projected the episode as illegal land use … and they allowed the destruction of the temple today.
'This has resulted in damage to the deity before it was shifted.
'We are dismayed that such incidents continue to recur in Bangladesh. Let me underline that it is the responsibility of the interim government of Bangladesh to protect Hindus, their properties, and religious institutions.'
According to reports, a Durga Mandir in Dhaka was demolished by the administration today, days after a large mob of Islamists threatened to bring it down.
The Khilkhet Sarbajanin Durga Mandir was demolished based on an order issued by the Bangladesh Railway's Dhaka Division Deputy Commissioner and Divisional Estate Officer.
The idols in the temple, puja materials and other items in the temple were destroyed in the operation.
To another question on trade issues with Bangladesh, the spokesperson said: 'The trade-related amendments announced by India in respect of Bangladesh were based on Bangladesh's own quest for fairness, equal treatment, and reciprocity. We await resolution of the underlying issues pending with the Bangladeshi side for a long time. These issues have been raised by India at several structured meetings earlier, including at the Commerce Secretary level talks.'
To a question whether the two countries are renegotiating the Ganga waters treaty, the spokesperson said that India and Bangladesh share 54 rivers, which also includes the Ganga.
'To discuss all relevant issues that form part of this cooperation, the two countries have bilateral mechanism in place, which is the Joint Rivers Commission. We also have consultations of concerned state governments, representatives in our own internal consultations on such issues to frame our approach. We are prepared to engage with Bangladesh on all matters in an environment that is conducive for mutually beneficial dialogue.'
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