A recent arrest in Bangladesh has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation from various quarters, including Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Gandhi expressed her deep concern over the arrest of ISKCON priest Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, terming the incident “extremely worrying.”
Das, a prominent Hindu monk, was taken into custody on Monday and presented before a Chittagong court on Tuesday, where he was remanded to police custody. He faces sedition charges for allegedly disrespecting the national flag of Bangladesh.
Gandhi’s statement comes amidst growing concerns over the safety and security of minority communities in Bangladesh.The Bangladesh Hindu Bouddha Christian Unity Council (BHBCUC), the country’s largest minority organization, has also condemned Das’s arrest.
India Condemns Arrest, Urges Bangladesh to Ensure Minority Safety
India has strongly condemned the arrest of Das, terming it “unfortunate” that charges were pressed against a religious leader who was presenting legitimate demands through peaceful gatherings. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has urged the Bangladeshi government to ensure the safety and protection of minority communities.
Union Minister Giriraj Singh has also condemned the arrest, stating that the Bangladeshi government is working under the pressure of radicals. Singh thanked the Indian government for taking the matter seriously and urged the United Nations to take cognizance of the situation.
Protests Erupt in Bangladesh, ISKCON Condemns Arrest
Protests have erupted in various parts of Bangladesh, with supporters of Das clashing with law enforcement agencies. The ISKCON organization has condemned the arrest, stating that Das was a peaceful and respected member of the community.
The arrest of Das has sparked a diplomatic row between India and Bangladesh, with both countries exchanging statements on the issue. The Bangladeshi government has maintained that the arrest was made in accordance with the country’s laws and regulations.
International Community Urged to Intervene
The international community has been urged to intervene in the matter, with many expressing concern over the growing intolerance and violence against minority communities in Bangladesh. The incident has highlighted the need for greater protection and safeguards for minority rights in the country.
Ten Key Points About the Bangladesh-ISKCON Controversy
Chandan Kumar Dhar, also known as Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, a former leader of the ISKCON, was arrested on November 25 at Dhaka airport.
Chinmoy Krishna Das was arrested in connection with a sedition case filed against him and 18 others.
Das is accused of hoisting a saffron flag above the Bangladesh national flag during a rally in October.
Das’ arrest also triggered protests by community members in various cities, including the capital, Dhaka, and the port city of Chattogram.
In Dhaka and Chittagong, the Bangladesh Police used tear gas to disperse a large crowd of Hindu protesters.
Bangladesh’s interim government chief adviser, Muhammad Yunus, condemned the murder of a lawyer who was killed on Tuesday after protests turned violent.
ISKCON urged the Bangladesh authorities to promote “peaceful coexistence” for Hindus in the country as it “strongly” denounced the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari.
Several political leaders in India, including those in the opposition, also voiced concern over the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das.
Former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina backed the arrested Hindu monk, Chinmoy Krishna Das, saying he was “unjustly arrested” and must immediately be released.
Perspective of a Bangladeshi:
A Bangladeshi Muslim media professional, Shovon Khan, has expressed his views on the recent incidents of violence against Hindus and minorities in Bangladesh. According to him, reports of such attacks are “absolutely fake” and are being fabricated by Indian journalists. It is claimed that India, as a neighboring country, should not interfere in Bangladesh’s internal affairs. Khan asserts that Bangladesh is a safe haven for Hindus and that the country is united, with political parties being the ones to create divisions. Regarding the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, Khan states that the ISKCON priest has been detained for investigation purposes only and is not being subjected to any form of torture. This perspective sheds light on the differing views surrounding the incidents in Bangladesh.
As the situation continues to unfold, many are watching with bated breath, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the crisis. The international community must come together to condemn the arrest and urge the Bangladeshi government to ensure the safety and security of minority communities, with many calling for the immediate release of Chinmoy Krishna Das and an end to the violence against minority communities. Stay updated with our latest news.
By Anusmita Bhatta
Reporting for True To Life News Media Pvt. Ltd.