Bangladesh: Protests erupt across after Hindu monk’s arrest; HC demands govt response on ISKCON

World News: A petition was filed in the Bangladesh High Court on Wednesday, calling for a ban on the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) following rising violence against the Hindu community. The petition also urges the imposition of a state of emergency in the cities of Chittagong and Rangpur to curb further unrest, as protests continue to spread across these regions. The High Court, in response, has sought to know what steps the government has taken regarding ISKCON’s activities, and directed Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman to provide a report on the matter by Thursday.

Court Demands Urgent Government Action

The bench, consisting of Justice Farah Mahbub and Justice Debasish Roy Chowdhury, took up the case after Supreme Court lawyer Moniruzzaman presented two newspaper articles related to ISKCON’s recent actions. The High Court has instructed the government to take immediate action to address the escalating situation, as the safety of religious minorities in the country has become a growing concern.

Unrest Triggers Protests After Hindu Monk's Arrest

The unrest stems from the arrest of prominent Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das Prabhu at Dhaka airport on November 25. Known for his outspoken advocacy for the rights and security of religious minorities, Prabhu has been charged with sedition and denied bail. His arrest sparked protests across Bangladesh, with the Hindu community demanding his immediate release. Demonstrations outside the Chittagong court turned violent, resulting in the tragic death of a lawyer, allegedly at the hands of a mob. More than 20 people were injured in related clashes.

The Arrest and Its Aftermath

Chinmoy Krishna Das Prabhu had previously organized several protests to highlight the atrocities committed against Hindus in Bangladesh, calling for greater protections for religious minorities. His detention has further fueled fears among the Hindu community, who view the charges as part of a broader effort to silence dissent and stifle calls for minority rights. In response to the developments, ISKCON condemned the arrest and urged the international community to intervene. An ISKCON spokesperson stated, “The UN must step in to save minorities in Bangladesh. The ongoing persecution is unacceptable,” emphasizing the dire situation facing Hindus in the country.

India Expresses Concern Over Minority Safety

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also expressed “deep concern” over the situation in Bangladesh. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the MEA condemned the attacks on Hindus and other minorities, citing numerous cases of arson, looting, theft, and desecration of temples and deities. The statement also condemned the violent suppression of peaceful protests by Hindus. The Indian government urged Bangladesh authorities to ensure the safety and security of Hindus and other minorities, including their right to peacefully assemble and express their views.

Bangladesh Responds to International Criticism

In response, Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized India’s intervention, stating that the issue was an internal matter for Bangladesh. The government expressed dismay over India’s comments, accusing them of misrepresenting the facts surrounding Chinmoy Krishna Das Prabhu’s arrest. Bangladesh emphasized that its commitment to religious harmony and the safety of all faiths remains intact, despite external claims to the contrary.