India is in diplomatic conflict with several Muslim countries, after spokesmen for the Hindu nationalist ruling BJP party spoke out about Islam.
One of the statements, which concerned the Prophet Muhammad and his wife Aisha, was made in a televised debate last week and the other on social media.
About 20 countries – including Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Iran – have since called on ambassadors from India to voice their criticisms.
The BJP has said that the comments do not reflect the party’s values and that the party “respects all religions”. One of the spokespersons has been excluded and the other has been suspended.
100,000 in Bangladesh
Friday’s protests are the largest so far against the statements. Bangladeshi police estimate that more than 100,000 people took to the streets around the country after Friday prayers.
– We have gathered here today to protest against the Indian government officials’ insult to the Prophet. We want to see the death penalty for them, a protester told AFP in the capital Dhaka.
The protesters want to see a boycott of Indian products and labor. Many shouted slogans against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Around 5,000 of the followers of the ultra-religious party Tehreek-e-Labbaik gathered in Lahore, Pakistan. They demanded stronger action from their government against India.
– The prophet of Islam is our red line, says a protester.
Tear gas and batons
Demonstrations were also held in the Indonesian capital Jakarta and in several Indian cities, including New Delhi.
In some places, police used tear gas and batons against protesters who threw stones.
Prime Minister Modi and his party have long been criticized for turning a blind eye to a growing problem of violence against the Muslim minority in the predominantly Hindu country.