New Delhi: India on Sunday rejected reports carried by sections of the Bangladesh media that described a protest outside the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi as large scale and aggressive, calling such accounts misleading and exaggerated.
The Ministry of External Affairs said the incident involved a small and peaceful gathering of around 20 to 25 people who assembled briefly near the mission on Friday. According to officials, the demonstrators raised concerns about recent attacks on minority communities in Bangladesh, particularly following the killing of a minority individual that has drawn public attention in both countries.
Indian authorities clarified that there was no attempt to breach security or enter the High Commission premises. The local police intervened quickly and dispersed the group without any disturbance. Officials stressed that normal security arrangements around diplomatic missions were maintained at all times.
Responding to reports from Dhaka that portrayed the protest as a major provocation, the external affairs ministry said such narratives amounted to propaganda and did not reflect the actual situation on the ground. India maintained that it takes the security of foreign diplomatic missions seriously and remains fully committed to international diplomatic norms.
At the same time, New Delhi reiterated its concern over the safety of minority communities in Bangladesh. Officials said India is closely monitoring developments there and has consistently raised the issue of minority protection through appropriate diplomatic channels. India has urged the Bangladesh authorities to ensure justice for victims and take firm steps to prevent further incidents.
The episode comes amid heightened tension following a wave of unrest in Bangladesh triggered by recent political violence and reports of attacks on minorities. These developments have led to protests in parts of India, especially in regions with close cultural and social ties to Bangladesh, where citizens have demanded stronger action to protect vulnerable communities across the border.
In recent days, India has also conveyed its concerns directly to Bangladesh through diplomatic engagement, emphasizing the need to prevent misinformation from escalating tensions and to safeguard diplomatic missions and personnel.
Officials in New Delhi underlined that while India respects freedom of expression, it will not accept distorted reporting that could inflame public sentiment or harm bilateral relations. They added that constructive dialogue and accurate information remain essential for maintaining stability and trust between the two neighbouring countries.