New Delhi: External Affairs minister S Jaishankar told the Lok Sabha on Friday that India is “very closely” tracking incidents of attacks on minorities in Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Replying during the question hour on ‘Crime and atrocities against minorities in Pakistan in Lok Sabha, Jaishankar said the government is making its position “well known” but cannot change the “fanatical and bigoted mindset” of a neighbouring country.
Jaishankar said in February (2025), there were 10 cases of atrocities against the Hindu community and three incidents related to the Sikh community.
“There were two cases pertaining to the Ahmedia community and one pertaining to the Christian community. We take up these cases on an international level.”
He further said, “Our representative at UNHRC pointed out that Pakistan is a country where “human rights abuses, persecution of minorities and systematic erosion of democratic values are state policies.”
Responding to a query on whether India plans “tough action” on the lines of former prime minister Indira Gandhi, Jaishankar said New Delhi is making its position “well known” but “we, as a government and a country cannot change the fanatical and bigoted mindset of a neighbour.”
Over the incidents against minorities in Bangladesh, External Affairs Minister said, “Like in Pakistan, we track the welfare and well-being of minorities in Bangladesh as well… In 2024, we had 2,400 incidents relating to attacks on minorities and in 2025, 72 incidents.”
“I have taken it up with my counterpart there. The foreign secretary also took it up when he visited Bangladesh. This continues to be a matter of concern for our government,” Jaishankar added.
UNI
