'Mob rule in Bangladesh very concerning': Shashi Tharoor
What's the story
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has expressed grave concern over the deteriorating law and order situation in Bangladesh, in particular referring to the incident where a Hindu man was lynched. The victim, identified as 27-year-old Dipu Chandra Das, was attacked by a mob for allegedly making derogatory remarks about Prophet Muhammad. The mob reportedly beat him to death, tied his body to a tree, and set it on fire.
Call for peace
Tharoor calls for restoration of democratic norms
Speaking to ANI, Tharoor has stressed the need to restore democratic norms in Bangladesh, with elections due in February 2026. He said, "Such mob rule should not prevail...the way the situation is going there...is very concerning." The MP also highlighted how these tensions could affect India-Bangladesh relations. He said, "Such a situation is not good for both countries; we want peace there."
Media freedom
Tharoor raises concerns over media attacks
Tharoor also expressed concern over targeted mob attacks on media houses like Prothom Alo and The Daily Star. He called these incidents an attack on press freedom and the foundations of a pluralistic society. The MP also raised concerns about the safety of journalists, including Mahfuz Anam, saying they shouldn't have to fear for their lives while their offices are attacked.
Visa disruption
Tharoor flags visa service suspension due to security threats
Tharoor also flagged the forced suspension of visa services at Indian Assistant High Commissions in Khulna and Rajshahi due to escalating security threats. He said this disruption had directly affected students, patients, and families who were beginning to see a return to normal cross-border mobility. The MP urged Bangladesh's interim government to ensure journalists' safety and diplomatic mission security while restoring calm through dialogue.
Strategic concerns
Tharoor warns of potential strategic challenges for India
Separately, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, headed by Tharoor, has warned that the situation in Bangladesh could become India's biggest strategic challenge since the 1971 Liberation War. The committee's report highlighted concerns over generational disconnect and political shifts away from India. It also pointed to the potential return of Islamist forces that followed the ouster of Sheikh Hasina and the downfall of her party as key turning points.
Twitter Post
Shashi Tharoor's remarks on situation in Bangladesh
I’m in Bihar today . These remarks on arrival at Patna airport: https://t.co/54Eh06RyuZ
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) December 20, 2025