Nahid to BBC: Minority Security is Our Duty, India’s Comment Unnecessary

Information and Broadcasting Adviser Nahid Islam stated that protecting Bangladesh's minorities is the country's own responsibility, and there’s no need for commentary from India. He added that instead, India should have clarified its stance on the massacres that took place in July and August.

In an interview with BBC Hindi on Thursday (November 14), Nahid Islam discussed the safety of minorities, allegations of persecution, the July-August uprisings, and Bangladesh-India joint projects.

Addressing misinformation in Indian media regarding Bangladesh, Nahid Islam remarked that such fabrications should cease, and that dialogue is necessary to improve Bangladesh-India relations.

Nahid criticized India’s lack of clarity on the July-August massacres, pointing out that while many countries have addressed it, India has remained silent, even sheltering Hasina, who is accused in connection with the events. He called for India's cooperation in bringing to justice those involved who have fled to India.

The BBC reporter questioned Nahid about alleged abuses against minorities in Bangladesh, with Nahid acknowledging incidents and mentioning that many minorities feel distrustful of local authorities. He asserted that the interim government has closely monitored minority safety and taken timely actions to prevent worsening conditions, citing the peaceful completion of Durga Puja as an example.

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He claimed that minorities are now more confident in law enforcement's protection. He further noted that previous governments had used minorities for political gain, eroding trust, but that efforts are now underway to address these issues, asking for patience to see improvements.

When asked whether extremist groups might gain influence following the fall of the Awami League, Nahid replied that the people of Bangladesh do not support violence or extremism but desire a democratic government. He dismissed this concern as propaganda by the Awami League and India to create fear that extremism would rise without the current government.

Nahid accused the Awami League of spreading this propaganda with India’s support, stating that India has favored relations with the Awami League over the Bangladeshi people. He added that, just as Bangladeshis do not focus on whether BJP or Congress governs India, their primary concern is a democratic process at home.

The BBC reporter also questioned Nahid on Bangladesh-India joint rail, water, and road projects, asking whether these initiatives would benefit only the Awami League or also the people of Bangladesh.

In response, Nahid said that these projects would benefit the Bangladeshi people, not just the Awami League. The development projects are being implemented based on the relationship between the two countries, and none of the initiatives with India have been halted—they are continuing as planned.

Nahid mentioned that ongoing projects with India and other countries are under review to identify any signs of corruption.