All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) president and MP Asaduddin Owaisi has strongly condemned the recent alleged mob killings of two Hindu youths in Bangladesh, warning that such incidents occur when majoritarian politics overrides the rule of law.
Condemnation of Majoritarian Violence
Owaisi expressed his unequivocal condemnation of the separate lynching incidents involving Dipu Chandra Das and Amrit Mondal. He linked the attacks to a breakdown in secular principles, stating that Bangladesh was founded on the idea of secular Bangla nationalism and is home to around 20 million non-Muslim minorities.
"We condemn what happened to Dipu Chandra Das and Amrit Mandal," Owaisi said. He argued that such lynchings are a direct result of a situation where "the rule of law breaks and majoritarian-run politics overtakes everything."
Details of the Tragic Incidents
The first victim, Dipu Chandra Das, a garment factory worker, was brutally killed on December 18. According to police reports cited by The Daily Star, a mob attacked him inside the factory in Mymensingh's Bhaluka area over accusations of making derogatory remarks about Prophet Muhammad in a Facebook post. After beating him to death, the mob hanged his body and set it on fire.
In a separate incident reported later, another Hindu youth, Amrit Mondal, was lynched in Hosendanga village, Kalimohor union, located in Rajbari's Pangsha sub-district. The attack was reportedly over allegations of extortion.
Owaisi's Stance on India-Bangladesh Relations and Security
While condemning the violence, the Hyderabad MP clarified his support for the Indian government's efforts to maintain strong bilateral ties with Dhaka. "I support the steps taken by the Government of India to ensure that the relationship with Bangladesh remains stronger," he told ANI.
He expressed hope that tensions between the two nations would not escalate and described the killings as "contrary to their own constitutional mandate." Owaisi also stressed that stability in Bangladesh is crucial for India's security, particularly in the sensitive Northeastern region.
However, he issued a significant warning about adversarial forces gaining influence. "We must also remember that ISI, China and all these forces which are inimical to India are now in Bangladesh...," Owaisi cautioned, highlighting a strategic concern for New Delhi.
Looking ahead, the AIMIM leader referenced the recent political changes in Bangladesh, expressing hope that the relationship would improve after the elections scheduled for February. He urged Bangladeshi leadership to ensure the protection of all minorities living in the country.