The US calls on Bangladesh to halt violent suppression of peaceful protests

The United States has reiterated to Bangladesh that it does not condone government involvement in violent crackdowns on peaceful protests. “I’m not going to comment on private diplomatic discussions, but we have made it clear to the government of Bangladesh, as we do to governments worldwide, that we support the right to peaceful protest and that no government should engage in violent crackdowns on peaceful demonstrations,” stated Matthew Miller during a press briefing.

Meanwhile, India has condemned the November 6 attacks on the Hindu community in Chittagong, Bangladesh, warning that such incidents would only exacerbate communal tensions. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, speaking at a weekly media briefing in New Delhi, said, “We have observed that there have been attacks on the Hindu community in Chittagong, Bangladesh. Their properties and businesses have been looted following provocative social media posts targeting Hindu religious organizations.”

Jaiswal called on the Bangladeshi government to take decisive action against “extremist elements” and ensure the safety of the Hindu community. He added, “It appears that extremist elements are responsible for these posts and the subsequent illegal, criminal acts. Such incidents are likely to increase tensions within the community. We once again urge the Government of Bangladesh to take strong measures to protect the Hindu community and act firmly against extremist elements.”

In Chittagong, clashes between the Hindu community and law enforcement escalated, prompting joint operations by police and army forces. According to the Bangla daily *Prothom Alo*, blank shots were fired during the operation to control the situation.