In a recent address to the Rajya Sabha, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar provided an update on the current situation in Bangladesh and its implications for the Indian community and minorities residing there.While addressing the house, he said that the authorities are in close contact with diplomats in Bangladesh. Jaishankar emphasized the governments proactive stance, stating, We are in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions. According to him, there are approximately 19,000 Indian nationals in Bangladesh, including around 9,000 students.Notably, the majority of these students had returned to India by July.Monitoring Minority Protection EffortsThe Union Minister further highlighted ongoing efforts to safeguard minority communities in Bangladesh. We are also monitoring the situation with regard to the status of minorities. There are reports of initiatives by various groups and organisations to ensure their protection and well-being, he said. Dr. Jaishankar assured that India would remain deeply concerned until law and order is fully restored.#WATCH | Speaking in Rajya Sabha on the situation in Bangladesh, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar says, ...We are in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there… pic.twitter.com/SJSv1hkQ1f— ANI (@ANI) August 6, 2024Heightened Border VigilanceGiven the complexity of the situation, the Indian government has instructed border guarding forces to maintain a heightened state of alertness. Our border guarding forces have been instructed to be exceptionally alert in view of this complex situation, Dr Jaishankar noted. He also mentioned that Indian authorities have been in regular contact with their counterparts in Dhaka over the past 24 hours and assured that the government would continue analyzing the same.Meanwhile, it is also important to highlight that during the all-party meeting, the Leader of Opposition, Rahul Gandhi inquired about Indias long term and short term strategy. This vigilant approach underscores Indias commitment to the safety of its nationals and the protection of minority communities in Bangladesh, reflecting the broader goal of regional stability and security.
