Sun Dec 08 16:02:12 UTC 2024: ## West Bengal Sees Protests Amidst Rising Tensions with Bangladesh
**Kolkata, India –** Tensions between India and Bangladesh spilled over into West Bengal on Sunday, December 8th, 2024, as several Hindutva groups staged protests across the state, including in Kolkata. These demonstrations follow reports of attacks on religious minorities in Bangladesh and come ahead of a visit by Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
The protests included burning Bangladeshi Dhakai Jamdani sarees at a Salt Lake bus terminus. Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, leading a rally in Kanthi, urged Hindus to unite against the violence in Bangladesh. He also reiterated his call for an economic blockade of Bangladesh, including the suspension of land port trade.
Conversely, the All India Imam and Muezzin Social Welfare Organisation appealed for an end to the violence against minorities in Bangladesh, while also condemning attempts to marginalize Muslims in India. They emphasized the historical brotherhood between the communities and urged both Indian and Bangladeshi governments to address the issue. Social activist Sabir Ahamed echoed these concerns, highlighting the vulnerability of minorities in both countries.
Adding another layer of complexity, the head of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission Dhaka wrote to Bangladesh’s Chief Advisor, urging the release of arrested Hindu leader Chinmoy Krishna Das, believing his release would improve the interim government’s image. The situation remains fluid, with concerns over escalating tensions between the two nations.
First Piper 