Eric Garcetti Raises Concerns Over Minority Rights In Bangladesh
NEW DELHI (ANI) US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti on Saturday expressed concern over the ongoing atrocities against Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh, emphasizing that safeguarding religious minorities is a cornerstone of both democracy and global peace.
Garcetti stated, “We have been very clear that around the world, religious minorities must be protected no matter what country they live in. That’s a cornerstone not only of democracy but of peace in the world.”
He further stressed the US’s commitment to ensuring minority voices are not excluded in South Asia. “We’re working very closely, as we always have, in South Asia—Bangladesh and here in India—to make sure that those voices are never excluded, and we hope that will continue,” he added.
Garcetti’s remarks came during an informal visit to St. Xavier’s College in Maharo, Dumka, as part of a cultural exchange alongside the High Commissioner of Malta, Reuben Gauci. The dignitaries were welcomed with a traditional Santali folk dance, reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Jharkhand: The Heartland of India
Highlighting the significance of the Jharkhand region, Garcetti described it as the “heartland of India” and praised its deep-rooted traditions. “Santhal people and Jharkhand—this entire region is such a heartland of India, a place where the people are close to the land, where traditions run deep. It’s a place I’ve wanted to visit since my very first meeting with President Murmu,” he remarked.
Drawing parallels between Indian and American tribal cultures, Garcetti underscored their shared reverence for nature. “I think we have a closeness to the land. We understand why nature is important, we preserve and conserve nature, and we look at ways that we can coexist with nature. The world needs these lessons more than ever. Whenever I’m with tribal communities here in India—whether it’s in the northeast, Rajasthan, or here in Jharkhand—I see people are closely connected to the old ways, which need to become the new way for a sustainable future,” he said.
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