Dhaka has objected to the US intel chief’s remarks on the “unfortunate persecution” of Hindus and other minorities in the country
Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, fired back at US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard on Tuesday following her remarks regarding the alleged persecution of minority communities in the country.
Speaking to Indian television channel NDTV during her recent visit to New Delhi, Gabbard had said the “longtime unfortunate persecution, killing, and abuse of religious minorities” in Bangladesh, including Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, and others has been “a major area of concern” for US President Donald Trump’s administration.
In a statement published on Facebook, the office of Muhammad Yunus, the Nobel Peace Prize laureate who now serves as Bangladesh’s interim leader, suggested that Gabbard’s remarks were “not based on any evidence or specific allegations” and “paint an entire nation with a broad and unjustified brush.”
“This statement is both misleading and damaging to the image and reputation of Bangladesh, a nation whose traditional practice of Islam has been famously inclusive and peaceful and that has made remarkable strides in its fight against extremism and terrorism,” the post read.
The statement added that public figures should make informed statements, especially on sensitive topics, and avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes that could fuel fears and sectarian tensions.
Yunus’ office acknowledged that Bangladesh, like many other countries, faces challenges related to extremism, but noted that it has been working together with the international community, including the US, to address these issues through law enforcement, social reforms, and counterterrorism efforts.
Gabbard had alleged that the “threat of Islamic terrorism” in Bangladesh was driven by an “ideology seeking to establish an Islamist caliphate.”
Dhaka countered that baselessly linking the country to the idea of an “Islamist caliphate” undermines the efforts of Bangladeshis and their international partners to promote peace, stability, and progress.
The persecution of minorities, including Hindus, in Bangladesh has been one of the issues New Delhi has highlighted ever since last August’s regime change in the country. Then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was forced to resign following weeks of deadly protests, and fled to India.
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Yunus’ interim administration has been seeking her extradition to Dhaka as she and members of her government face charges including “crimes against humanity.” Earlier this month, however, Yunus stated that Dhaka is attempting to overcome its issues with New Delhi.
