Why India’s Soft Diplomacy Needs a Hard Reset After Bangladesh Violence

The lynching of Dipu Chandra Das in Mymensingh, Bangladesh, following allegations of blasphemy has once again underscored the vulnerability faced by Hindu minorities in the country. According to witnesses, Das was forcibly taken from his workplace, assaulted by a mob, and killed, with his body publicly desecrated.

The incident has drawn condemnation from rights groups, who say it reflects a recurring pattern of mob violence driven by religious extremism. Civil society voices in India have called for stronger safeguards for minorities and reforms in law enforcement to prevent blasphemy allegations from being misused.

The killing has also highlighted systemic weaknesses in Bangladesh’s institutions, where rumours and mob action are seen to override due legal process. This has left minority communities exposed and raised pressing concerns over governance, security, and the rule of law.