Author: Shubhajit Roy
Publication: The Indian Express
Date: June 29, 2010
URL: http://www.indianexpress.com/news/Delhi-dials-Dhaka-after-alert-on-Lashkar-plan-to-target-Indians/639816
Indian diplomats and nationals working in
Bangladesh face the threat of a possible Lashkar-e-Toiba attack, Indian intelligence
agencies have warned the Ministry of External Affairs.
Last week, the intelligence agencies communicated
that the Lashkar was planning to target Indian diplomats and nationals working
in different projects in Bangladesh, and could try and create a hostage situation.
Sources said intelligence agencies picked
up specific inputs of attacks on pilgrims headed for a Rath Yatra mid-July
in Dhamrai village in Manikganj district near Dhaka.
The terror threat has alarmed New Delhi since
the Sheikh Hasina government in Dhaka has been cracking down on terror groups
and elements, including those belonging to the Lashkar, ever since it returned
to power in 2008.
New Delhi has already taken up the matter
with Dhaka, and has been assured increased security for Indians living in
Bangladesh.
While it is relatively easy to secure Indian
diplomats who number about 30, it is not exactly the same with Indian nationals
working there - they are estimated to be around 30,000, working in government
projects and private establishments.
The High Commission in Dhaka and the consulates
in Chittagong and Rajshahi are guarded by local police.There has been a security
review and talks are on to assess whether Indian security agencies should
be asked to secure the missions.
