India has strongly condemned the recent theft of a crown from the Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple in Bangladesh, describing it as part of a "systematic pattern of desecration" targeting Hindu temples in the country. The stolen crown, made of silver and gold-plated, was a gift from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Bangladesh in March 2021.

The crown was reportedly stolen during Durga Puja celebrations and the theft was captured on security cameras. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India expressed deep concern over this incident, as well as an attack on a Puja mandap in Tantibazar, Dhaka, where a petrol bomb injured 20 people on Friday.

In a statement, the MEA said, "We are seriously concerned about the attack on the Puja mandap in Dhaka and the theft at the revered Jeshoreshwari Kali temple in Satkhira. These are unacceptable acts and part of a recurring pattern of desecration and damage to Hindu temples and deities that has been observed in recent days."

India has urged the Bangladesh government to ensure the safety of Hindus and other minorities, especially during the festival season. The Jeshoreshwari Temple is considered one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, significant religious sites for Hindus across India and neighboring countries.

The Hindu community in Bangladesh, which makes up about 8% of the country's 170 million population, has faced increasing threats and violence, especially following the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on August 5. Many Hindus have reported vandalism of their temples, businesses, and properties.

Before Durga Puja began, Hindu communities received warnings from Islamist groups not to celebrate their festival openly, citing concerns over offending the Muslim majority. Since the start of the celebrations on October 1, Bangladesh has seen 35 reported incidents targeting Durga Puja festivities, resulting in 11 cases being filed, 24 general diaries (GDs) registered, and 17 arrests, according to the Dhaka Tribune, quoting Inspector General of Police Md Moinul Islam.