Welcome to theustales.com.
The arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, a Hindu monk and former ISKCON member, has sparked widespread protests and international concern. Das was arrested on November 25, 2024, on sedition charges for allegedly disrespecting Bangladesh’s national flag during a rally in Chittagong. His bail request was denied by a Chittagong court, intensifying the outcry for his release.
ISKCON Stands in Solidarity with Chinmoy Krishna Das
ISKCON quickly issued a statement supporting Das. In a post, the organization declared, “ISKCON, Inc. stands with Chinmoy Krishna Das. Our prayers to Lord Krishna for the protection of all these devotees.” Despite Das being expelled from ISKCON in October 2024, the organization emphasized its commitment to protecting the rights of Hindus and promoting religious harmony.
ISKCON also refuted claims that it distanced itself from Das. It reiterated that Das’s actions do not officially represent ISKCON in Bangladesh. Still, it maintained support for his rights and peaceful calls for protecting Hindus and their places of worship.
You may Also Like:
Maharashtra Govt Withdraws Order to Allocate ₹10 Crore to State Waqf Board
Rising Violence Against Hindu Temples
Following Das’s arrest, violence erupted in Chattogram. Three Hindu temples were vandalized by a mob shouting slogans. The attack damaged the Shoni Temple and the gates of the Shantaneshwari Matri Temple and Shantaneshwari Kalibari Temple. These incidents have further deepened tensions, with ISKCON Bangladesh rejecting any links to the violence, calling the accusations baseless and part of a malicious campaign.
Financial Crackdown on ISKCON Leaders
The Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU) ordered the freezing of bank accounts linked to 17 individuals associated with ISKCON. Chinmoy Krishna Das’s account was among those affected. Banks were instructed to suspend transactions for 30 days and submit updated transaction statements.
Global Leaders Condemn the Arrest
Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina condemned Das’s arrest, calling it “unjust.” She demanded his immediate release and criticized the ongoing violence against minorities. Hasina highlighted the need to ensure religious freedom and protect all communities in Bangladesh.
UK MP Bob Blackman also raised concerns in Parliament. He criticized the Bangladesh High Court’s attempt to ban ISKCON, labeling it a direct attack on Hindus. Blackman urged global advocacy for religious freedom and emphasized the need to protect Hindus in Bangladesh.
Human Rights Advocates Speak Out
Johnnie Moore, former Commissioner of the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom, expressed alarm over the lack of global attention. He urged human rights organizations to speak out against the persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh. Moore warned that this case is an existential threat to minorities in the country.
Diplomatic Tensions Escalate
The arrest has strained relations between Bangladesh and India. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that India takes the violence against minorities in Bangladesh seriously. He reminded Dhaka of its responsibility to protect the lives and liberties of all citizens. In response, Bangladesh urged India to ensure the safety of its diplomatic missions.
The arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das has ignited protests, diplomatic tensions, and global condemnation. Calls for his release continue, as do demands for the protection of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh. ISKCON remains steadfast in its support for Das, while international voices urge Bangladesh to uphold religious freedom and human rights.