India has expressed strong concern over the arrest and denial of bail to Shri Chinmoy Krishna Das, a Hindu religious leader and spokesperson for the Bangladesh Sammilit Sanatan Jagran Jote. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) urged the Bangladesh government to ensure the safety and security of minorities and to uphold the principles of justice and fairness. In a statement, the MEA noted, “We have noted with deep concern the arrest and denial of bail to Shri Chinmoy Krishna Das. This incident follows multiple attacks on Hindus and other minorities by extremist elements in Bangladesh. It is unfortunate that while perpetrators of such incidents remain at large, charges have been pressed against a religious leader presenting legitimate demands through peaceful gatherings.” Recognising the global position of recognition that ISKCON holds, MEA spokesperson Mr. Randhir Jaiswal said, “Our position on the matter is clear – the interim government must live up to its responsibility of protecting all minorities. We are concerned at the surge of extremist rhetoric, increasing incidents of violence and provocation. These developments cannot be dismissed only as media exaggeration.
Dhaka Responds to New Delhi’s Concerns
Bangladesh’s Foreign Ministry dismissed India’s concerns, describing the issue as an internal matter. In its statement, Dhaka said, “Unfounded statements misrepresent facts and stand contrary to the spirit of friendship and understanding between the two neighbouring countries.” The Bangladeshi government maintained that Chinmoy Krishna Das had been arrested on sedition charges and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens, irrespective of their religious affiliations. Chinmoy Krishna Das was arrested at Dhaka’s main airport while traveling to Chattogram and is accused of sedition linked to a rally held in Chattogram’s Laldighi Maidan in October. The rally allegedly involved disrespect toward Bangladesh’s national flag. The charges have sparked protests by Hindu community members in Dhaka and other cities, who claim the accusations are politically motivated and aimed at suppressing minority voices. Das’s arrest comes amid increasing incidents of violence against Hindus in Bangladesh, including arson, looting, and desecration of temples. The Hindu community has called for his release, staging peaceful protests despite heavy security deployments.
A Bangladeshi court on Tuesday denied Das’s bail, citing procedural requirements for his custody. Protests outside the court escalated as police and Border Guard Bangladesh forces dispersed demonstrators using sound grenades and baton charges. From inside the prison van, Das urged his followers to remain calm, stating, “We will hold a peaceful protest by controlling our emotions and turning them into strength.” Meanwhile, ISKCON Bangladesh has formally distanced itself from Chinmoy Krishna Das, asserting that he is no longer associated with the organization. At a press briefing held at the Swamibagh Ashram in Dhaka on Thursday, Charu Chandra Das Brahmachari, General Secretary of ISKCON Bangladesh, clarified that Chinmoy Krishna Das, along with two other individuals, were expelled several months ago for disciplinary violations. “We have repeatedly clarified through press conferences and formal communications with government and administrative authorities that these individuals do not belong to ISKCON Bangladesh. However, certain groups are deliberately spreading false information about our organization and making unwarranted demands to ban ISKCON,” added Charu Chandra Das.
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