Tensions flared in Bangladesh as police used tear gas and batons to disperse large groups of Hindus protesting the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, a prominent Hindu religious leader associated with the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). Protests erupted in Dhaka and Chittagong, leading to confrontations with law enforcement amid rising concerns about the safety of religious minorities in the country.
Chinmoy Krishna Das was arrested on Monday at Dhaka airport on charges including sedition, linked to his alleged role in a rally in October where Bangladesh’s national flag was reportedly disrespected. Following his arrest, widespread protests erupted, with over 2,000 supporters gathering in Chittagong to demand his release.
As Das was being transported to prison after a court denied him bail on Tuesday, his supporters blocked the police van for over two hours. Chittagong Metropolitan Police Commissioner Hasib Aziz reported that the situation escalated when protesters began throwing bricks at the police. “We had to use tear gas to disperse the crowd. No serious injuries were reported, though one constable was hurt,” Aziz stated.
The unrest has drawn international attention, with India voicing strong concern over the safety of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. The Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement condemning the incident and highlighting the series of attacks on Hindu communities since the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government on August 5.
“This incident follows multiple documented cases of violence, including arson, vandalism, and desecration of temples. It is deeply unfortunate that a religious leader, presenting legitimate demands peacefully, has been targeted,” the ministry said.
Bangladesh’s Hindu population, which constitutes about 8% of its 170 million citizens, has reportedly faced over 200 attacks across more than 50 districts in recent months. Despite these challenges, activists and religious leaders continue to call for protection and justice for the minority community.
The Bangladeshi government has yet to respond to the allegations of inaction in protecting minorities, but the protests and international pressure have intensified calls for a comprehensive investigation into the incidents and immediate measures to ensure the safety of vulnerable groups.
Sources By Agencies