The arrest of Hindu priest Chinmoy Krishna Das has triggered widespread controversy in Bangladesh, leading to clashes, legal actions, and diplomatic tensions. A petition has now been filed in the High Court seeking a ban on the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) amid allegations of religious fundamentalism and growing unrest.
Chinmoy Krishna Das, leader of the Hindu group Sammilita Sanatani Jote, was arrested on Monday near Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. Police described the arrest as part of efforts to address alleged fundamentalist activities linked to ISKCON and its affiliates.
Supreme Court lawyer Moniruzzaman filed the High Court petition, presenting newspaper reports as evidence and urging the imposition of a state of emergency in Chattogram and Rangpur to prevent further unrest.
Government Response and Court Inquiry
Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman told the High Court that attempts were being made to destabilize the nation, asserting that the government was working to build national unity. The court has directed the Attorney General to update on the government’s actions regarding ISKCON’s activities and its role in recent clashes.
“It is a religious fundamentalist organization. The government is already scrutinizing them,” the Attorney General stated during the proceedings.
The unrest escalated during protests following the priest’s arrest, with one death reported. Saiful Islam, an assistant public prosecutor in his 30s, succumbed to injuries sustained during clashes between Das’s followers and security forces.
India-Bangladesh Diplomatic Tensions
India expressed “deep concern” over the arrest and denial of bail to Chinmoy Krishna Das, calling for the safety and security of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. However, Dhaka dismissed these concerns as “unfounded” and stated they misrepresented facts, emphasizing the independence of Bangladesh’s judiciary.
“Such statements stand contrary to the spirit of friendship and understanding between the two countries,” Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in response.
ISKCON’s Reaction
ISKCON Bangladesh condemned the arrest and subsequent violence in a public statement.
“We express our serious concern and strongly denounce the recent arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das… We urge the government authorities to promote peaceful coexistence for the Sanatani community,” the organization said.
What’s Next?
The High Court is expected to review the government’s response to ISKCON’s activities and the unrest during a hearing on Thursday. The developments are being closely monitored, with potential implications for religious harmony, legal proceedings, and regional diplomacy.
