Summary:
- Chinmoy Krishna Das, a Hindu monk, was temporarily banned by ISKCON’s Child Protection Office due to allegations of misconduct.
- The ban prevents him from holding leadership roles or interacting with minors within ISKCON properties.
- He was arrested at Dhaka’s airport on sedition charges related to an alleged national flag disrespect incident.
- His arrest has led to protests by Hindu organizations in Bangladesh, raising concerns over minority rights.
Chinmoy Krishna Das, a prominent Hindu monk and leader within the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), was arrested on November 25, 2024, at Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. His arrest has sparked widespread protests and raised concerns about religious freedom and minority rights in Bangladesh.
Chinmoy Krishna Das, also known by his legal name Chandan Dhar, serves as the president of Pundarik Dham and is a key figure in Bangladesh’s Hindu community. He was detained on sedition charges, allegedly for disrespecting the national flag during a rally in Chattogram in October. This arrest has led to significant unrest among the Hindu community, with protests erupting across the country demanding his release.
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) has strongly condemned the arrest, highlighting Chinmoy’s role as an advocate for minority rights. In a statement, ISKCON urged the Bangladeshi government to uphold his right to free speech and called for immediate measures to ensure justice and harmony. “We express our serious concern and strongly denounce the recent arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das,” ISKCON stated, emphasizing the need for protecting minority rights.
The arrest has also drawn international attention. India’s Ministry of External Affairs expressed deep concern over the incident, urging Bangladesh to ensure the safety and security of Hindus and other minorities. The ministry highlighted ongoing attacks against minorities in Bangladesh, including arson and vandalism targeting their homes and places of worship.
In response to Chinmoy’s arrest, protests have been organized by various groups, including the Bangladesh Sammilito Sanatani Jagaran Jote, of which Chinmoy is a spokesperson. Demonstrations have taken place in Dhaka and Chattogram, with protesters demanding his immediate release. The unrest has resulted in clashes with law enforcement, leading to injuries and heightened tensions.
The situation has further escalated with a petition filed in the Bangladesh High Court seeking a ban on ISKCON amidst increasing violence against Hindus. The court has asked the government to address these concerns promptly.
Chinmoy’s detention underscores broader issues regarding religious freedom and minority protection in Bangladesh. As protests continue, both national and international communities are closely monitoring developments, urging peaceful resolution and protection of human rights for all citizens in Bangladesh.
Source: Daily Inqilab
