New Delhi/IBNS: India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday slammed Bangladesh over its remark on the violent anti-Waqf protests by Muslims in West Bengal's Murshidabad district and advocated Dhaka to protect the rights of its own minorities.

The MEA's response comes after Bangladesh press secretary Shafiqul Alam said, as quoted by NDTV, "We urge the Government of India and West Bengal to take all steps to fully protect the minority Muslim population."

In a sharp counter, the MEA issued a statement that reads, "We reject the remarks made by the Bangladesh side with regard to the incidents in West Bengal. This is a barely disguised and disingenuous attempt to draw a parallel with India’s concerns over the ongoing persecution of minorities in Bangladesh where the criminal perpetrators of such acts continue to roam free.

"Instead of making unwarranted comments and indulging in virtue signaling, Bangladesh would do better to focus on protecting the rights of its own minorities."

The tension gripped the Muslim-dominated Murshidabad district after three people were killed, railway tracks were blocked, and there was arson and vandalism by the violent protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act held primarily in Jangipur, Samserganj, Dhuliyan and Suti.

Over 200 people have been arrested in connection with that violence so far.

Attacked by marauding mobs, Hindus from villages fled in boats and via roads to the adjacent district of Malda as Islamic violence claimed three lives and destroyed properties.

The situation was brought under control and the tension was reigned after central forces were deployed as per the directive of the Calcutta High Court in response to Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari's plea.

Videos from ferry ghats showed hordes of Hindu families, including women, children and elderly, fleeing to the safety of the Malda district.