Indian authorities have deployed around 15,000 police personnel outside the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi following protests over the recent killing of a Bangladeshi garment worker accused of blasphemy.

The demonstration was organised in protest against the killing of Dipu Chandra Das in Mymensingh, Bangladesh, where he was reportedly attacked following allegations of religious disrespect.

According to a local official, a “strong force” of police has been mobilised to manage the situation and prevent protesters from approaching the diplomatic mission. Indian news outlet NDTV reported that police successfully stopped demonstrators approximately 800 metres away from the Bangladesh High Commission.

To block any advance towards the premises, several government buses were positioned as physical barriers. Despite heightened security, some protesters were seen attempting to breach police barricades.

Earlier, NDTV reported that the protest was led by the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal. In the course of the demonstration, several protesters reportedly broke through at least two layers of barricades and moved closer to the diplomatic compound. Some were also seen holding banners and placards while chanting slogans outside the mission.

In response to the protest, Delhi Police significantly reinforced security around the High Commission. Authorities said they had been on alert in advance and had put in place strict security measures to avoid any untoward incidents.

Reports indicate that the area has been secured with three layers of barricading, while police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed for crowd control.

Meanwhile, in Dhaka, Bangladesh’s Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam held a meeting with Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma. 

Diplomatic sources confirmed that the Indian envoy was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at 10:00 am on Tuesday.