Bangladesh urges full probe into Agartala mission attack

December 02, 2024
Monday's violent protest and attack by protesters of the Hindu Sangarsha Samiti at the premises of its Assistant High Commission in Agartala. Photo: Collected
  • In the presence of local law enforcement, they vandalized the flagpole, desecrated the Bangladeshi flag, and damaged property

The Bangladesh government has expressed strong resentment over Monday's violent protest and attack by protesters of the Hindu Sangarsha Samiti at the premises of its Assistant High Commission in Agartala. It has called for swift action and a thorough investigation into the incident.

In an evening statement, the foreign ministry reminded the Indian government of its obligation under the Vienna Convention to safeguard diplomatic missions, emphasizing that this responsibility lies with the host country.

"As it is the responsibility of the host government to protect the diplomatic missions from any form of intrusion or damage, the government of Bangladesh calls upon the government of India to take immediate action to address this incident, to undertake a thorough investigation into the incident and to prevent any further acts of violence against the diplomatic missions of Bangladesh in India, including the safety and security of the diplomats and the non-diplomatic members of staff and members of their families," the foreign ministry said. 
The Indian External Affairs Ministry described the attack as "deeply regrettable" and emphasized that "diplomatic and consular properties must never be targeted under any circumstances."  

New Delhi announced that measures are being taken to enhance security for the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi, as well as its Deputy and Assistant High Commissions across the country.

The Bangladesh foreign ministry stated that the attack on the Assistant High Commission in Agartala was premeditated, with protesters forcibly entering by breaking the main gate. In the presence of local law enforcement, they vandalized the flagpole, desecrated the Bangladeshi flag, and damaged property.

The ministry expressed disappointment over the inaction of local police in controlling the situation, leaving commission staff feeling deeply insecure.

Bangladesh emphasized that this attack, following a similar incident in Kolkata on November 28, violates the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961), which guarantees the inviolability of diplomatic missions.