The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India has voiced serious concerns over the arrest and denial of bail to Chinmoy Krishna Das, a spokesperson for the Hindu organization Sammilita Sanatani Jote in Bangladesh. This incident follows a series of attacks on Hindus and other minorities by extremist groups in the country.
Arrest and Court Order
A Bangladeshi court rejected the bail plea of Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, ordering his detention. His arrest came after protests led by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) against atrocities on Hindus in Bangladesh. Das was apprehended at Dhaka Airport on charges of sedition and disrupting communal harmony. Following his arrest, members of the Hindu community staged protests, blocking roads in Dhaka, and reports of violence emerged from various areas.
India’s Official Statement
Responding to the developments, India has expressed deep concern over the situation. The MEA urged Bangladeshi authorities to ensure the safety of Hindus and other minority communities. They emphasized the need to safeguard the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression for all citizens.
Sedition Charges Against Das
On October 30, Chinmoy Krishna Das and 18 others were charged under the sedition law for allegedly disrespecting the national flag during a rally organized by the Sanatan Jagaran Manch in Chittagong. It was alleged that during the October 25 protest, a saffron flag bearing the phrase “Ami Sanatani” was hoisted at a prominent freedom monument. This act was interpreted as an insult to the Bangladeshi national flag, leading to legal action against the participants.
Increase in Violence Against Minorities
Since the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August following a student-led movement, attacks on Hindus and other minority groups have intensified. A caretaker government led by Muhammad Yunus is currently in charge, but incidents of violence against minorities have surged since Sheikh Hasina’s departure. Protests by minority communities against these attacks have become more frequent.
Demands of the Hindu Minority Community
The Hindu minority in Bangladesh, under the leadership of the Sanatan Jagaran Manch, has been protesting for their rights since October. Chinmoy Krishna Das has been at the forefront of these protests, presenting an eight-point demand to the government. These include:
- Establishing a tribunal to prosecute those responsible for crimes against minorities.
- Providing compensation and rehabilitation for victims.
- Enforcing laws for minority protection.
- Creating a Ministry for Minority Affairs.
- Setting up prayer rooms and worship spaces in educational institutions and hostels.
- Prioritizing welfare trusts for Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians.
- Implementing property transfer regulations.
- Modernizing Pali and Sanskrit education boards and granting five days of holidays for Durga Puja.
The situation remains tense as minority groups in Bangladesh continue to fight for their rights amid rising hostility and violence.
