New Delhi: Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Monday urged the Modi government to engage with Bangladesh to ensure the safety of Hindus, Christians, and other minorities facing atrocities there. Highlighting India’s role in the 1971 war, she emphasized that the country fought for democratic principles and against oppression, even when no international support was forthcoming.
“There are atrocities being committed against Hindus, Christians, and minorities in Bangladesh. The 1971 war was a battle of principles—principles of democracy and standing up against atrocities. These ideals have made India great, and our freedom struggle, too, was fought for the same values. Back then, India stood alone while Indira Gandhi travelled the world for support, but none came forward. Still, our people, our Army, and our nation rose to the occasion,” Priyanka told reporters, describing Indira Gandhi as a “great martyr.”
In the Lok Sabha, Priyanka reiterated, “The government must raise the issue of atrocities against minorities in Bangladesh, discuss it with the Bangladeshi government, and support those in pain.”
She also expressed frustration over not being allowed to address the matter on Vijay Diwas, stating that she was informed the government would speak on the issue. “Until then, perhaps the government didn’t remember the occasion. Later, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey was allowed to raise the matter,” she added.
“I wanted to pay tribute to those who fought in the war and the people who supported the Army. I also wanted to honor Indira Gandhi, who had the courage to take decisive action. We fought, and we won,” Priyanka said.
Echoing similar concerns, TMC MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay questioned why the government remained silent on the issue of atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh. He demanded that the Prime Minister or the External Affairs Minister address the matter.
Meanwhile, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, speaking in the Rajya Sabha, praised Indira Gandhi’s leadership during the 1971 war. “Our brave leader, Ms. Indira Gandhi, split Pakistan into two parts, created Bangladesh, took one lakh prisoners of war, and elevated India’s prestige on the global stage,” Kharge said.
