Yogi Adityanath Attacks Opposition Over “Selective Silence” on Bangladesh Violence

In a heated speech in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly on December 24, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath criticized opposition parties for not speaking out against the brutal killing of a Hindu man in Bangladesh.

The Main Points of the Speech

• “Selective Outrage”: Adityanath accused the opposition (specifically the Samajwadi Party) of crying over international issues like the Gaza Strip while remaining silent about atrocities against Hindus and Dalits in neighboring countries.
• Vote-Bank Politics: He alleged that their silence is driven by a fear of losing “vote banks,” claiming they prioritize political gain over human rights.
• A Call for Condemnation: The Chief Minister challenged the Leader of the Opposition to pass a formal resolution in the Assembly condemning the attack on Dipu Chandra Das.
• Warning on Immigration: He warned the opposition not to support “illegal Bangladeshis and Rohingyas” when the state government takes action to identify and deport them.

Context of the Killing

The speech was sparked by the death of Dipu Chandra Das, a 27-year-old Hindu garment worker in Mymensingh, Bangladesh:

• The Incident: On December 18, Dipu was lynched by a mob and his body was set on fire.
• The Motive: While initial rumors claimed “blasphemy,” Bangladeshi authorities later found no evidence of this, suggesting the attack was based on personal or professional conflict.
• The Victims: Adityanath highlighted that Dipu was a Dalit, emphasizing that those who claim to protect Dalit rights in India should be the first to speak up.

The Bigger Picture

This incident has caused a major diplomatic rift:

• India’s Reaction: India has summoned the Bangladeshi High Commissioner twice in one week to express “grave concern.”
• Protests: Massive demonstrations have broken out in Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, leading to clashes with police and the suspension of some visa services.