By Jessica Murdock
Chinmoy Krishna Das Arrested on Sedition Charges
Chinmoy Krishna Das, a prominent Hindu monk and leader associated with the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), was arrested earlier this week at Dhaka airport on charges of sedition. The arrest has sparked widespread protests from the Hindu community, particularly in Dhaka and Chattogram. The protests intensified after a court denied him bail, triggering public outcry over what many perceive as unjust treatment of the religious leader.
Sheikh Hasina Calls for His Immediate Release
In a statement from the Awami League, former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina called for the immediate release of Chinmoy Krishna Das, condemning his arrest. Hasina, a key political figure, stated that Das, a respected leader of the Sanatan religious community, had been “unjustly arrested” and must be freed. She further emphasized the importance of ensuring religious freedom and the protection of all communities in Bangladesh, citing previous incidents where places of worship, including mosques, churches, and Hindu temples, had been attacked.
Religious Attacks Continue Amidst Growing Tensions
Sheikh Hasina’s statement also condemned recent attacks on religious sites, including the burning of a temple in Chattogram. She highlighted the ongoing violence against minority religious communities in Bangladesh, citing incidents of looting, vandalism, and arson targeting the Ahmadiyya community. Hasina called for greater protection of the country’s religious minorities and for an end to the harassment they face.
Violence Erupts Amid Protests
As protests over Chinmoy Krishna Das’ arrest continue, violence has also erupted in Chittagong. A Muslim lawyer was killed during demonstrations outside a local court. Police are investigating the incident, and the interim government, formed after Hasina’s departure to India in August, has vowed to address the situation. The government has also called for increased security in Chittagong to prevent further violence.
Political Unrest and Strain on Minorities
The political turmoil in Bangladesh has deepened since Sheikh Hasina fled the country in August due to widespread protests against her government’s controversial policies, particularly the job quota system. The interim government led by Nobel laureate Yunus, who assumed office after Hasina’s departure, is facing significant challenges in maintaining order. Hindu minority groups in Bangladesh, which make up approximately 8% of the population, have reported over 200 attacks on their members across 50 districts since the change in government. These incidents highlight the continuing challenges faced by religious minorities in the country.
Calls for Accountability and Justice
In addition to calling for the release of Chinmoy Krishna Das, Sheikh Hasina condemned the recent murder of a lawyer in Chittagong, labeling those responsible as terrorists. She urged the swift apprehension and punishment of those involved in the lawyer’s killing. The political landscape in Bangladesh remains volatile, and many fear that the ongoing unrest could further exacerbate tensions between religious communities.
