A large-scale protest erupted outside the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi on Tuesday following the killing of Bangladeshi Hindu man Dipu Chandra Das.
The demonstrators clashed with police, broke through barricades, and moved towards the diplomatic mission, NDTV reported.
The protesters were seeking justice for Dipu Chandra Das, a garment worker who was recently killed by a mob for “hurting religious sentiments” in Bangladesh’s Mymensingh.
Several Indian media outlets reported that the protest was led by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal. The protesters alleged that attacks had been carried out on Hindus and religious sites in Bangladesh.
Despite heightened security, several protesters were seen in NDTV footage breaking through barricades erected outside the High Commission. The demonstrators managed to breach at least two layers of barricading, prompting police to intervene and detain several people to bring the situation under control.
Footage broadcast by Indian television channels showed protesters carrying banners and placards, chanting slogans, and attempting to advance towards the diplomatic premises. NDTV reported that some protesters also burnt an effigy of Bangladesh’s interim Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus.
One protester was quoted by NDTV as saying, “If we do not raise our voice today, then you and I will also become another Dipu.” Another demonstrator alleged that Hindus were being killed in Bangladesh and demanded justice and protection for the minorities.
However, Delhi police strengthened security around the High Commission as tensions escalated. Security agencies had been on alert ahead of the protest and deployed police and paramilitary personnel in the area.
Authorities secured the zone with a three-tier barricade and worked to re-establish order after parts of the barriers were damaged.
The protests followed the murder of 25-year-old Dipu in Bhaluka, Mymensingh, on 18 December. According to reports, he was beaten to death, and his body was later set on fire by a mob. The incident triggered widespread outrage, and Bangladeshi authorities have arrested at least 12 people in connection with the killing.
Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Summoned
Bangladesh summoned Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma on Tuesday morning to express concern over attacks and protests targeting its diplomatic missions in India.
Bangladesh also protested previous incidents, including vandalism at the Bangladesh Visa Centre in Siliguri on 22 December and a protest outside the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi on 20 December.
In a statement cited by Indian media, Bangladesh condemned what it described as premeditated acts of violence and intimidation against diplomatic establishments and urged India to ensure the safety and security of Bangladeshi missions and personnel.
Indian authorities said the protests in New Delhi were brief and posed no threat to the High Commission, adding that adequate security arrangements remain in place.
