Dhaka | Amid continuing violence and unrest in Bangladesh, senior Congress leader and Member of Parliament Shashi Tharoor has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation, particularly attacks on the media and rising intolerance. Tharoor described the recent assaults on press institutions as a direct attack not only on press freedom but also on Bangladesh’s pluralistic character.
In a series of posts on social media platform X, Tharoor said he was “deeply troubled” by reports from Bangladesh, especially the targeted attacks on the offices of leading newspapers Prothom Alo and The Daily Star. He noted that these incidents go beyond intimidation of journalists and strike at the core of democratic values. Tharoor also voiced concern for the safety of editors, including Mahfuz Anam, and other journalists working under threat.
The Congress MP also commented on the temporary closure of Indian Assistant High Commissions in Khulna and Rajshahi due to security concerns. He termed the move a serious setback, noting that it would directly affect students, patients and economically weaker families who rely on consular services. Tharoor warned that an atmosphere of violence and intolerance ahead of the proposed elections scheduled for February 12, 2026, could severely undermine the democratic process.
Beyond criticism, Tharoor offered a set of measures to help restore stability. He urged the interim government led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus to ensure the safety of journalists, saying no reporter should be forced to post distress messages while their offices are under attack. He stressed that mob rule must not be allowed to prevail under any circumstances.
Tharoor also emphasised the importance of safeguarding diplomatic missions, stating that embassies and consulates must remain secure spaces to maintain people-to-people contact and international engagement. He called for enhanced security at diplomatic establishments that have come under threat and underscored the need for political dialogue over street violence to guide the country through its transitional phase.
According to Tharoor, stability in Bangladesh is crucial not just for the country but for the entire region. He expressed hope that peace would return and that the will of the people would ultimately be expressed through the ballot box rather than fear and violence.
Bangladesh has witnessed recurring unrest since the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina last year. While tensions had briefly eased, the situation flared up again following the killing of a student leader. In the aftermath, extremist groups blamed India, targeted Indian diplomatic missions and carried out violent attacks, including the killing of a Hindu youth whose body was reportedly publicly desecrated, further deepening communal and political tensions.
