Dhaka seeks, Modi declines: PM Modi may not meet Yunus in US as attacks on Hindus persist

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina requested a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. However, Modi declined the request, citing scheduling conflicts.

This development comes amid escalating tensions between India and Bangladesh following recent attacks on Hindu temples and minorities in Bangladesh. The Indian government has strongly condemned the attacks and called for the perpetrators to be brought to justice.

India-Bangladesh Tensions

Relations between India and Bangladesh have been strained in recent years due to a number of issues, including border disputes, water sharing, and illegal immigration. The attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh have further exacerbated tensions between the two countries.

The Indian government has expressed concern over the safety of its citizens in Bangladesh and has urged the Bangladesh government to take steps to protect them. The Bangladesh government has said that it is committed to ensuring the safety of all its citizens, regardless of their religion.

Modi's Decision

Modi's decision to decline Hasina's request for a meeting has been interpreted by some as a sign of India's displeasure with Bangladesh's handling of the attacks on Hindus. However, Indian officials have said that the decision was made solely due to scheduling conflicts.

It is unclear whether Modi will meet with Hasina on a future date. The two leaders are scheduled to attend the UNGA meeting in New York next week.

Yunus Meeting

In addition to the meeting with Hasina, Modi was also expected to meet with Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus on the sidelines of the UNGA meeting. However, it is now unclear whether this meeting will take place.

Yunus is a Bangladeshi social entrepreneur who founded the Grameen Bank, which provides microloans to the poor. He is a strong advocate for interfaith dialogue and has been critical of the attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh.

If Modi does not meet with Yunus, it would be seen as a further snub to Bangladesh. It would also send a message that India is not interested in engaging with Bangladesh on issues of mutual concern.