New York [US], November 29: The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) has expressed solidarity with Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, a priest arrested in Bangladesh on charges of sedition for allegedly raising a flag on a stand displaying the national flag of Bangladesh. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and intensified debates about religious freedom and minority rights in the country.
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), ISKCON, Inc. said, “ISKCON, Inc. stands with Chinmoy Krishna Das. Our prayers to Lord Krishna for the protection of all these devotees.”
Arrest and Court Proceedings
Chinmoy Krishna Das was arrested and presented before a Chittagong court, which denied his bail request and remanded him in custody. The charges have drawn sharp criticism, with many calling for his immediate release.
Adding to the controversy, a lawyer has filed a petition seeking a ban on ISKCON in Bangladesh, labeling it a “radical organization” and accusing it of inciting communal unrest, according to local media reports.
Former PM Sheikh Hasina Condemns Arrest
Former Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina condemned the arrest, calling it “unjust” and demanded Chinmoy Krishna Das’s immediate release. In a strongly-worded statement, she also highlighted the broader issue of attacks on religious minorities and their places of worship in Bangladesh.
“A senior leader of the Sanatan religious community has been unjustly arrested, and I demand his immediate release,” Hasina stated. “Temples have been set ablaze in Chittagong. Previously, mosques, shrines, churches, monasteries, and homes belonging to the Ahmadiyya community have been attacked, vandalized, looted, and burned. Religious freedom and the safety of all communities must be guaranteed.”
Calls for International Attention
The arrest has led to protests and increased tensions between the Bangladesh government and ISKCON. Recently, a group of retired judges, bureaucrats, and a sitting Member of Parliament in India sent a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to address the rising violence and discrimination against Hindus in Bangladesh.
Strained Relations
The incident has strained relations between the Bangladeshi government and ISKCON, with the international community closely watching developments. Advocates for religious freedom have called for swift action to address the safety of minorities and ensure justice for Chinmoy Krishna Das.
