Several hundred activists from Indian far-right organisations, including Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP), stormed the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala of Tripura on Monday, overpowering security staff, pulling down the Bangladesh national flag and setting it on fire.
The demonstration, reportedly protesting "targeted attacks on minority Hindus" in Bangladesh, escalated as around 100 protesters entered the office compound and removed the national flag, according to The Assam Tribune.
A senior police official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that no vandalism or physical scuffles occurred inside the premises. “The police quickly intervened and removed the protesters before any further damage could occur,” the official said.
The protest began in the morning at Agartala Circuit House, where demonstrators voiced concerns about alleged minority oppression in Bangladesh.
One protester claimed, “Muslim minorities in India live peacefully with us. No one dares to harm them without lawful justification, but in Bangladesh, the situation is completely opposite.”
A VHP leader stated that the organisation was urging the Indian government to intervene and ensure peace in Bangladesh.
India regrets
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement Monday evening, expressing regret over the breach.
“The incident earlier today at the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala is deeply regrettable. Diplomatic and consular properties should not be targeted under any circumstances. The government is taking immediate action to enhance security at the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi and its other consular offices across India,” the statement.