New Delhi: Tensions escalated in Delhi as members of the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and other Hindu organisations clashed with police outside the Bangladesh High Commission, demanding justice for the brutal lynching of 27-year-old Dipu Chandra Das.

Heavy security was deployed to control the situation as demonstrators broke barricades, attempting to march towards the High Commission, protesting the killing and persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh.

Demonstrators Break Barricades, Raise Slogans

Protesters from the VHP, Bajrang Dal, and the Sarbo Bharatiya Hindi Bangali Sangathan gathered near the Durgabai Deshmukh South Campus Metro Station. They chanted slogans including “Bharat Mata Ki Jai”, “Yunus Sarkar Hosh me Aao”, and “Hindu Hatiya Band Karo”.

One protestor said: “Hindus are being killed. This country belongs to Lord Ram. This country belongs to Lord Krishna. We don't kill anyone here, but the dignity of our sisters and daughters is in danger.”

The demonstration specifically sought accountability for the killing of Das on 18 December, allegedly over a blasphemy claim.

Political Reactions and Calls for Action

West Bengal Congress leader Ashutosh Chatterjee called on India’s External Affairs Minister to intervene. He stated: “Humanity is under attack. Both Hindus and Muslim are being killed. Don't bring religion into this. BJP wants to polarise the issue. We condemn the atrocities in Bangladesh. Priyanka Gandhi was right. The Foreign Minister should wake up.”

The protest follows a series of demonstrations across India highlighting violence against minorities in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh Suspends Services Amid Security Concerns

In response to the protests, Bangladesh suspended consular and visa services in New Delhi and Agartala, citing security risks. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned India’s High Commissioner, Pranay Verma, expressing grave concern over attacks on diplomatic missions.

A Bangladesh Foreign Ministry statement read: “Bangladesh condemns such acts of premeditated violence or intimidation against diplomatic establishments, which not only endanger the safety of diplomatic personnel but also undermine the principles of mutual respect and values of peace and tolerance.”

The statement urged India to conduct thorough investigations and ensure the safety of Bangladesh’s diplomatic missions in the country.

Vandalism and Earlier Protests

The incidents include vandalism at the Bangladesh Visa Centre in Siliguri on 22 December and the High Commission protest in New Delhi on 20 December. India dismissed claims of inadequate security, calling the protest brief and non-threatening.

Das, a 27-year-old Hindu, was beaten to death by a mob in Mymensingh over alleged blasphemy. His body was set on fire, sparking widespread outrage and renewed international concern over minority safety in Bangladesh.

Intelligence Reports on ISI Provocation

Intelligence agencies in India have identified attempts by ISI-backed elements to provoke India into retaliation. Officials stated the aim is to portray India as the aggressor internationally, exploiting anti-Hasina sentiment and minority persecution in Bangladesh.

“ISI-backed handles are deliberately making these clips go viral in India so that it provokes the general public. The aim is to provoke the Indian public to such an extent that they put pressure on the government to act militarily against Bangladesh,” an official said.

The unrest follows the ouster of Sheikh Hasina and her stay in New Delhi since August 2024. Street violence, minority persecution, and attacks on student leaders have become increasingly frequent.

Strategic and Electoral Implications

Officials noted that the ISI and Jamaat-e-Islami aim to delay Bangladesh’s February 2026 elections. By creating instability, they hope to weaken India-friendly parties such as the BNP and maintain influence through proxies like caretaker leader Muhammad Yunus.

“Any government that is friendly with India is detrimental to Pakistan, and this is something that it would try to avoid at any cost,” another official added.

India maintains that it does not seek aggression but will act to safeguard its sovereignty while striving to maintain good ties with neighbouring Bangladesh.