Fri Mar 28 17:16:59 UTC 2025: **Jaishankar Highlights Pakistan’s Failure to Protect Minorities, Raises Concerns Over Bangladesh**
NEW DELHI, March 28, 2025 – External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Friday asserted that Pakistan’s persecution of religious minorities continues unabated, stating that even former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi couldn’t alter Pakistan’s “bigoted mindset.” Responding to parliamentary questions, Jaishankar detailed numerous attacks against Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, and Ahmadiyya Muslims in Pakistan, citing at least 10 incidents in February alone. He emphasized that while India is raising the issue internationally, changing Pakistan’s behavior remains a challenge.
Concerning Bangladesh, Jaishankar acknowledged India’s deep concern over the situation, citing 2,400 incidents of violence against minorities in 2024 and 72 so far in 2025. He confirmed direct engagement with Bangladeshi officials on the matter, including discussions with the Foreign Affairs Adviser. However, he selectively addressed questions from certain MPs about Bangladesh’s situation.
Jaishankar’s comments follow a recent US Commission on International Religious Freedom report that designated Pakistan a “Country of Particular Concern” due to widespread persecution of minorities. The report also noted a decline in minority freedoms in Bangladesh, though it attributed some reported incidents to political motivations. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs previously rejected the report, which also criticized India’s treatment of religious minorities. The timing of Jaishankar’s remarks is notable, preceding Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming trip to Bangkok for the BIMSTEC Summit, where a bilateral meeting with Bangladesh is still unconfirmed.
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