India monitors Bangladesh interest in Mecca Pact as Dhaka addresses domestic security concerns

NEW DELHI — India is closely monitoring developments regarding Bangladesh’s potential participation in the Mecca Pact, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs confirmed on Friday.

Addressing a weekly press briefing in New Delhi, ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India remains observant of all regional events, particularly those that may have implications for national security. Jaiswal emphasized that the Indian government maintains a policy of taking all necessary measures to ensure its security interests are protected.

The remarks follow recent statements from Bangladeshi officials regarding the accord. Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister, Khalilur Rahman, recently described the Mecca Pact in positive terms, characterizing it as a defensive mechanism for the global Muslim community. Rahman noted that while Bangladesh has not yet formally joined, the government would consider an invitation to participate if extended by the existing member states. This position was echoed by the Bangladeshi State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Humayun Kabir, who had previously signaled an interest in the agreement.

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During the briefing, Jaiswal was also questioned regarding reports of recent attacks on minority families in Bangladesh and whether the situation has prompted concerns in New Delhi.

The spokesperson declined to offer specific criticism of the Bangladeshi administration. He stated that managing law and order remains the fundamental responsibility of the Bangladeshi government, noting that it is incumbent upon them to fulfill that duty.