Protests that began in Nepal against radical and extremist groups in Bangladesh have spread across several Indian states, with demonstrators demanding justice, safety, and protection for Hindus while urging authorities to act firmly against hate and violence.

What started as a wave of demonstrations in Nepal has now resonated across India, reaching Assam, West Bengal, Delhi, and Maharashtra.

Over the past week, people from diverse backgrounds have gathered in streets, public squares, and designated protest sites to voice concern over reports of fear and violence allegedly faced by Hindus in Bangladesh due to extremist activities.

The protests, largely peaceful in nature, reflect growing regional anxiety over religious extremism and its cross-border implications. Participants have consistently emphasised that their demonstrations are not directed against ordinary citizens of Bangladesh but against radical elements they believe are responsible for spreading fear, hatred, and insecurity.

Marches, sit-ins, and candlelight vigils have been organised in multiple cities, with demonstrators calling for justice, protection of minorities, and respect for fundamental human rights.

Police and local administrations across states have confirmed that protests were allowed with prior permissions and that security arrangements were strengthened to maintain law and order.

Officials stated that no major incidents of violence were reported during the rallies, though authorities remained alert to prevent any attempts at provocation or misinformation.

Voices from the Ground: “This Is Against Extremism, Not People”

In cities such as Kolkata and Guwahati, protesters carried placards reading “Stop Hate, Protect Minorities” and “Human Rights Know No Borders”. In Delhi, small but vocal gatherings near symbolic protest sites saw participants chanting slogans against extremism and urging international attention to the issue.

Similar scenes unfolded in parts of Maharashtra, where community groups and activists organised peaceful marches and discussions.

Many demonstrators stressed unity and restraint. “Our protest is against radical and extremist forces, not against common people or any nation,” said a participant at a rally in West Bengal.

Another protester in Assam noted, “We are standing up for those who feel unheard and unsafe. Silence only strengthens violence.”

Civil society members, students, and members of religious organisations were among those participating, reflecting a broad-based response rather than a single-group mobilisation.

Several organisers highlighted the importance of keeping the protests peaceful and inclusive, urging participants not to fall prey to rumours or inflammatory narratives circulating online.

Indian police officials in multiple states echoed this sentiment. A senior official in Delhi said authorities were monitoring social media closely to curb the spread of misinformation and ensure that protests did not escalate into communal tension.

“People have the right to peaceful protest, but we will act firmly against any attempt to disturb harmony,” the official said.

Background: Reports of Violence and Regional Ripples

The protests were sparked by reports of violence, threats, and intimidation allegedly linked to radical groups in Bangladesh, which first led to demonstrations in Nepal. Activists claim that these incidents have created an atmosphere of fear among minority communities, particularly Hindus, prompting concern beyond Bangladesh’s borders.

While details of specific incidents remain contested and continue to be debated, the perception of rising extremism has struck a chord across South Asia. Rights groups and activists argue that social media rumours and unverified videos have amplified anxieties, making it difficult to separate fact from exaggeration. They have called on governments and platforms alike to ensure accurate information and responsible communication.

In India, the protests have also reopened conversations about communal harmony and the responsibility of citizens to respond thoughtfully to developments in neighbouring countries.

Authorities have repeatedly urged people not to generalise or blame entire communities for the actions of extremist groups. Statements from local administrations stressed that India remains committed to maintaining peace and that any form of hate speech or incitement would invite strict action.

Diplomatic experts note that such cross-border protests reflect the interconnected nature of the region, where events in one country often influence public sentiment in another. However, they caution that sustained dialogue and institutional engagement, rather than street-level anger, are essential for long-term solutions.

Calls for Action: Beyond Protests

Beyond expressions of solidarity, demonstrators have demanded concrete action. These include calls for stronger international pressure on extremist groups, protection mechanisms for minorities, and coordinated efforts to counter hate speech and online rumours.

Some protesters urged Indian leaders to raise the issue at diplomatic forums, while others called on global human rights bodies to monitor developments closely.

At the same time, officials have maintained that foreign policy decisions rest with the central government and should be guided by verified information and diplomatic channels.

State authorities, meanwhile, have focused on ensuring that domestic protests remain peaceful and do not inflame communal sensitivities.

Several activists also highlighted the need for dialogue between communities across borders. “Violence thrives where communication breaks down,” said a Delhi-based social worker. “We need conversations rooted in empathy, not anger.”

The Logical Indian’s Perspective

At The Logical Indian, we believe that standing up against extremism is essential—but it must never come at the cost of peace, compassion, and coexistence. Peaceful protest is a democratic right and a powerful tool to demand justice, yet it carries the responsibility of rejecting hate, resisting misinformation, and refusing to generalise entire communities or nations.

Extremism, wherever it exists, harms everyone. Addressing it requires courage, but also wisdom, dialogue, and a firm commitment to human rights and dignity for all.

As voices rise across borders in solidarity and concern, the challenge before us is to ensure that empathy guides action and that unity prevails over division.