Fighting Extremism: Delhi throws its weight behind Dhaka
India has said it has always been against fundamentalism and extremism and expressed confidence that the Bangladesh government would address the challenge posed by violent street protests by Hefajat-e-Islam during and after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to that country.
"As far as the violence is concerned, we have always been against fundamentalism and extremism. We are confident that the Bangladesh government will address the challenge," Indian External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said at the weekly virtual media briefing yesterday.
He was responding to a question about the violent street protests by Hefajat in parts of Bangladesh protesting Modi's visit.
Arindam said the Indian PM's visit to Bangladesh facilitated "significant decisions" to reinforce the legacy of 1971 and this was in furtherance of India-Bangladesh bilateral cooperation.
Asked about the escalating crackdown by Myanmar's military junta on pro-democracy protesters, Arindam said his country condemns any use of violence.
"We believe the rule of law should prevail. We stand for restoration of democracy. We have urged for release of political leaders and support attempts at resolving the current situation in that country, including through the ASEAN."
He said India remains engaged on this issue with its international interlocutors and at the UN Security Council in an effort to play "a balanced and constructive role".
About India's stand on the flow of people from coup-hit Myanmar to north eastern Indian states like Mizoram and Manipur, the spokesperson said, "We are dealing with it as per law and on humanitarian considerations."
Regarding the attendance of an Indian diplomat at Myanmar's annual military parade in that country recently, Arindam said, "We have a functional embassy in Myanmar. Our ambassador, defence attache and other diplomats are carrying on their diplomatic responsibilities. Nothing more should be read in the particular event being referred to."