The Bangladesh interim government on Monday registered a strong protest against comments made by US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard on persecution of minorities in the country.
Bangladesh released a statement challenging Gabbard’s observations, calling them “misleading and damaging” to the nation’s standing.
“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,” Bangladesh’s interim government said in a statement.
“Gabbard’s comments are not based on any evidence or specific allegations. They paint an entire nation with a broad and unjustified brush. Bangladesh, like many countries around the world, has faced challenges with extremism, but it has continuously worked in partnership with the international community, including the US, to address these issues through law enforcement, social reforms, and other counterterrorism efforts. Bangladesh strongly condemns any efforts to link the country to any form of ‘Islamist caliphate,” the statement added.
Bangladesh also urged Gabbard to base her statements on “actual knowledge” when discussing sensitive issues, warning that such remarks could reinforce harmful stereotypes.
“Political leaders and public figures should base their statements, especially about the most sensitive issues, on actual knowledge and take care not to reinforce harmful stereotypes, to fan fears, and potentially even stoke sectarian tensions,” the statement said.
“In support of our shared global efforts to combat extremism and terrorism, the interim government of Bangladesh remains committed to engaging in constructive dialogue based on facts and on respect for the sovereignty and security of all nations,” the statement added.
Previously, Gabbard criticised the Mohammad Yunus-led interim administration and discussed the concept of “Islamic Caliphate” and its influence across various nations.
The increase in violent incidents corresponds with Bangladesh’s political uncertainty following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s ouster from the country.
Recent months have witnessed an uptick in violent mob attacks on Hindu temples and religious locations, prompting criticism from human rights groups and India.
Tensions worsened after authorities detained Hindu ISKCON priest Chinmoy Krishna Das, a notable minority rights advocate, at Dhaka airport as he attempted to travel to Chattogram. Das serves as the spokesperson for the Bangladesh Sammilita Sanatani Jagran Jote.
