685 prominent Indian citizens have written an open letter to the people of Bangladesh urging them to give priority to peace and friendship. Among them are the country’s former judges, bureaucrats and several ambassadors. On December 19 (Thursday), The Indian Express reported online.
In the letter, they emphasized on maintaining the friendship between the two countries, considering the Dhaka-Delhi relationship seriously for the past five decades.
According to Indian Express report, among the signatories of the letter is former Chief Election Commissioner of India S Y Qureshi.
The letter called for the alleged ‘attacks on minorities and the destruction of their businesses’ in Bangladesh. The dignitaries emphasized the need to maintain close and credible bilateral relations between India and Bangladesh. Because they think that this bilateral relationship will protect the long-term interests of both countries.
The letter emphasized on ensuring the security of all minority communities, including Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, Shias and Ahmadis.
Besides, there was appreciation of resolving important bilateral issues like India and Bangladesh’s land and sea boundaries and cooperative efforts in power, communication and infrastructure.
India remains steadfast in its support to Bangladesh through grants and loans on easy terms, the letter noted. Eminent Indian citizens believe that close, cooperative and trusting bilateral relations will serve the long-term interests of the people of both countries.
They also urged the people of Bangladesh not to be influenced by anti-India propaganda. Finally, calling for the restoration of democracy and secularism, they emphasized the importance of free, fair and inclusive elections.
