Violent Protests in Tripura: Hindu Group Members Arrested for Vandalising Bangladesh Consulate
Background
The northeastern state of Tripura in India has been witnessing violent protests in recent days, with a Hindu group, the Hindu Sangharsha Samiti, taking to the streets to demand the release of a Hindu religious leader, Chinmoy Krishna Das, who was arrested in Bangladesh last week.
Incident at Bangladesh Consulate
On Tuesday, police in Tripura arrested seven members of the Hindu Sangharsha Samiti for breaking into the Bangladesh consulate and vandalising property. The incident occurred hours after Bangladesh called for immediate action against protesters who broke into the consulate, saying they tore down its main gate, damaged property, and desecrated the national flag.
Police Investigation
According to district police officer Kiran Kumar K., around 50 protesters broke into the property’s main gate and brought down the Bangladeshi flag post. The police are investigating the incident and have identified more people involved in the break-in. Disciplinary action has been taken against four police officers in charge of consulate security.
International Reaction
India’s foreign ministry has condemned the incident, calling it “deeply regrettable”. The ministry stated that diplomatic and consular properties should not be targeted under any circumstances. Tarique Rahman, the son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and the acting president of her Bangladesh Nationalist Party, has also criticised the attack, saying such incidents cause division and discord among neighbours.
Context
Chinmoy Krishna Das, the Hindu religious leader arrested in Bangladesh, is associated with the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. His arrest sparked protests in Dhaka and the southern port city of Chittagong, where his supporters clashed with security forces. Hindu-majority India had also condemned the arrest and expressed concern over attacks on Hindus and other minorities in Muslim-majority Bangladesh.
Conclusion
The incident at the Bangladesh consulate in Tripura highlights the growing tensions between India and Bangladesh over issues related to religious freedom and minority rights. The arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das and the subsequent protests and violence have sparked concerns about the safety and security of minority communities in both countries. It is essential for the governments of India and Bangladesh to take immediate action to address these concerns and prevent further incidents of violence and vandalism.
FAQs
Q: Who were the protesters who broke into the Bangladesh consulate?
A: The protesters were members of the Hindu Sangharsha Samiti, a group that says it protects Hindu interests.
Q: What was the motive behind the break-in?
A: The motive was to protest the arrest of Hindu religious leader Chinmoy Krishna Das in Bangladesh.
Q: What was the reaction of the Indian government to the incident?
A: The Indian government condemned the incident, calling it “deeply regrettable” and stating that diplomatic and consular properties should not be targeted under any circumstances.
Q: What was the reaction of the Bangladesh government to the incident?
A: Bangladesh called for immediate action against the protesters who broke into the consulate, saying they tore down its main gate, damaged property, and desecrated the national flag.