ISKCON Bangladesh has issued a strong condemnation of the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, a prominent Hindu leader and spokesperson for the “Bangladesh Sammilito Sanatani Jagaran Jot.” The organization also criticized subsequent violence against Sanatani communities in various regions of the country and presented a list of demands to the government led by Muhammad Yunus.
Calls For Peaceful Coexistence
In an official statement, ISKCON Bangladesh urged the government to ensure the safety and rights of the Sanatani community. “We express our serious concern and strongly denounce the recent arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das. We also condemn the subsequent violence and attacks against Sanatanis across Bangladesh. Hence urge the authorities to promote peaceful coexistence,” the statement read.
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Chinmoy Krishna Das, described as a vocal advocate for minority rights, has consistently worked to protect vulnerable communities. ISKCON stressed the importance of upholding his right to free speech and called for justice and fair treatment.
“Chinmoy Krishna Das and the Sanatani community deserve justice as citizens of this country, and any form of discrimination against them must not be tolerated,” the statement emphasized.
Demands To The Government
ISKCON Bangladesh outlined three key demands for the government and relevant authorities:
- Identify and Prosecute Perpetrators: Bring those responsible for attacks on the Sanatani community to justice.
- Protect Civil Rights: Ensure the safety and rights of Chinmoy Krishna Das and other Sanatani citizens.
- Promote Harmony: Implement effective measures to maintain peace among all communities.
Commitment To Minority Rights
Highlighting its role in protecting religious freedoms, ISKCON Bangladesh reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the rights of minorities, including Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians.
“As a leading Sanatani organization within the Gaudiya Vaishnav tradition, we consistently urge the government to uphold constitutional protections for minorities. Collaborative actions with Sanatani leaders are essential to address these concerns,” the statement said.
ISKCON emphasized its pride in Bangladesh’s heritage and its peaceful collaboration with the government. “Bangladesh is our ancestral home. We ask the authorities to ensure justice for all and allow every citizen to practice their religion freely,” the statement added.
Arrest Sparks Wider Outcry
The arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das on sedition charges has triggered widespread concern among minority groups. He was taken into custody on Monday and presented before a Chittagong court on Tuesday. The court denied his bail plea, and he remains in custody.
The charges stem from allegations that he raised a flag resembling Bangladesh’s national flag on a separate stand. However, the complainant reportedly expressed unwillingness to pursue the case.
The Bangladesh Hindu Bouddha Christian Unity Council (BHBCUC), the country’s largest minority group, also condemned the arrest. “We strongly condemn the detention of Prabhu Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari and call on the government to release him immediately,” said Manindra Kumar Nath, Acting General Secretary of BHBCUC.
ISKCON’s Plea For Unity
Concluding its statement, ISKCON Bangladesh appealed for religious tolerance and responsible action. “We remain devoted to peaceful coexistence and hope the government will restore harmony and guide the nation toward communal unity,” the organization stated, urging citizens to practice tolerance and avoid provocations.
Legal Proceedings And Next Steps
While the charges against Chinmoy Krishna Das remain unresolved, minority leaders continue to press for his release and justice for the Sanatani community. The unfolding situation underscores the challenges faced by religious minorities in Bangladesh and the urgent need for reforms to ensure their safety and rights.
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