The Government of India has expressed strong concern over the arrest of Bangladeshi Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das and the denial of his bail by the Chittagong Metropolitan Magistrate Court. Chinmoy Krishna Das, President of Pundarik Dham and spokesperson for the Bangladesh Sammilit Sanatan Jagran Jote, was charged with sedition following accusations of disrespecting the Bangladeshi flag during a protest rally in October.
In an official statement, India condemned the ongoing attacks on Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh, including incidents of arson, vandalism, and desecration of religious sites. “We urge Bangladeshi authorities to ensure the safety and security of Hindus and other minorities, including their right to freedom of peaceful assembly and expression,” the Ministry of External Affairs said.
Chinmoy Krishna Das’s arrest has sparked widespread protests among Hindus in Bangladesh and West Bengal, with reports of planned demonstrations at the Petrapole border and in front of the West Bengal Assembly. ISKCON Vice President Radha Ramn Das refuted claims of flag disrespect, explaining that the saffron flag at the protest was mistakenly perceived as an insult to the Bangladeshi national flag.
The Indian government has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the rights of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. The Ministry emphasized the need for Bangladesh to uphold its obligations to protect religious freedoms and ensure communal harmony.
Protests are expected to intensify unless the monk is granted bail, with Hindu leaders calling for immediate resolution of the matter.
