External Affairs Minister Affirms India’s Commitment to Protecting Minority Rights in Neighboring Countries
India Closely Monitoring Attacks on Minorities in Pakistan and Bangladesh: Jaishankar
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar informed the Lok Sabha on Friday that India is “very closely” tracking incidents of attacks on minorities in Pakistan and Bangladesh and has raised concerns at the international level.
Rising Atrocities Against Minorities in Pakistan
During a question hour discussion on Crime and Atrocities Against Minorities in Pakistan, Jaishankar revealed that in February 2025 alone, there were:
✔ 10 cases of attacks on the Hindu community
✔ Three incidents targeting Sikhs
✔ Two cases involving the Ahmadiyya community
✔ One incident against Christians
Jaishankar emphasized that India has taken up these concerns in global forums, including at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). He cited India’s stance at UNHRC, stating that Pakistan follows “state policies” that promote human rights abuses, minority persecution, and systematic erosion of democratic values.
Concerns Over Attacks on Minorities in Bangladesh
Jaishankar also highlighted growing concerns over attacks on minorities in Bangladesh.
- In 2024, India recorded 2,400 incidents related to violence against minorities in Bangladesh.
- In 2025, 72 such incidents have already been reported.
The External Affairs Minister assured that these concerns have been raised with the Bangladeshi government at the highest levels, including discussions with his counterpart and the Indian Foreign Secretary’s visit to Dhaka.
India’s Stance on Taking Action
Responding to a question on whether India would take “tough action” similar to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s approach, Jaishankar asserted:
“We, as a government and a country, cannot change the fanatical and bigoted mindset of a neighboring country. However, we continue to make our position well known and raise these issues globally.”
India remains committed to ensuring the safety and welfare of minorities in its neighboring countries and will continue diplomatic efforts to address these concerns.
