India has voiced strong criticism against Bangladesh’s interim government over the demolition of a Durga temple in Dhaka, accusing it of failing to protect minority religious sites and misrepresenting the incident as a case of illegal land occupation. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed dismay at the recurring nature of such incidents, stating that the authorities not only failed to safeguard the temple but also permitted its destruction, resulting in damage to the idol before it was relocated.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted that extremist groups had been demanding the demolition of the temple located in Khilkhet, and rather than ensuring its protection, the interim government justified the action by citing encroachment. The demolition, carried out by Bangladesh Railway with support from police and military personnel, took place just days after a mob reportedly called for its removal.

While officials claimed the temple stood on railway land, several minority organizations condemned the move, alleging that it was carried out without prior notice. The event has further strained India-Bangladesh relations, especially after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led government. India has raised concerns about increasing threats to religious minorities, whereas Bangladesh has dismissed these claims as exaggerated.