Muhammad Yunus calls PM Modi, assures safety, protection of Hindus in Bangladesh

New Delhi: Muhammad Yunus, the chief adviser to the interim government in Bangladesh, called up Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, assuring protection, safety and security of Hindus and all other minorities in his country.

This is the first conversation between Modi and Yunus after he assumed the responsibility following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led government.

Modi said in a post on X that he reiterated India's support for a democratic, stable, peaceful and progressive Bangladesh.

He said, "Received a telephone call from Professor Muhammad Yunus, @ChiefAdviserGoB. Exchanged views on the prevailing situation. Reiterated India's support for a democratic, stable, peaceful and progressive Bangladesh. He assured protection, safety and security of Hindus and all minorities in Bangladesh."

During the call, the prime minister reaffirmed India's support for a democratic, stable, peaceful and progressive Bangladesh, a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said.

Modi emphasised India's commitment to supporting the people of Bangladesh through various development initiatives.

The prime minister also underlined the importance of ensuring the safety and protection of Hindus and all other minority communities in Bangladesh, the statement said.

Yunus, in turn, assured that the interim government would prioritise protection, safety and security of Hindus and all minority groups in Bangladesh, it said.

The two leaders also discussed ways to take the bilateral relationship forward in line with the respective national priorities.

The prime minister had in his Independence Day address on Thursday voiced concern over the safety of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh.

"As a neighbouring country, I can understand the concern regarding whatever has happened in Bangladesh. I hope that the situation there will become normal soon," he had said.

"In particular, the concerns of 140 crore countrymen is that the safety and security of Hindus and minorities there is ensured. India always wants that the neighbouring country marches on the path of peace and prosperity," Modi had said.