Md Touhid Hossain, Bangladesh's foreign affairs advisor, assured on Tuesday that the interim government is taking all necessary measures to safeguard its citizens, emphasizing that "Hindus in Bangladesh are also our citizens."

Hossain addressed concerns over the reported attacks on minorities, particularly Hindus, in Bangladesh, stating, “Any violence that has occurred is being inaccurately portrayed as targeted against Hindus. Indian media needs to stop sensationalizing this issue. We are doing everything possible to ensure the protection of all our citizens, including Hindus, who are an integral part of our nation.”

This statement follows a period of political unrest in Bangladesh, triggered by the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in the wake of widespread student protests, which evolved into a national anti-government movement. Amid the chaos, an interim government, headed by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, was established to maintain order. During this period, reports of violence against minorities, including Hindus, have surfaced, raising concerns about their safety.

Meanwhile, Muhammad Yunus faced protests upon his arrival at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. Demonstrators, holding signs that read “Sheikh Hasina Our Prime Minister,” accused Yunus of gaining power through "dirty politics" and expressed outrage over the reported attacks on minorities. Protesters chanted, “Go back, step down,” and criticized his rise to power as unconstitutional.

Yunus took office as the head of the interim government on August 8, following the dissolution of parliament and Sheikh Hasina’s departure. Protesters alleged that Yunus’ leadership was marked by political violence and targeted killings, calling for the United Nations to reject his representation of the Bangladeshi people.

Md Touhid Hossain also met with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on the sidelines of the UNGA session. The two leaders discussed key aspects of Bangladesh-India bilateral relations. Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs shared the meeting details on social media, emphasizing the mutual interests between the two nations.

Yunus is expected to hold several high-level meetings during the UNGA, including one with US President Joe Biden. He is also scheduled to address the General Debate on September 27.