Congress Voices Concern Over Arrest of Hindu Leader Chinmoy Krishna Das in Bangladesh

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 27th Nov. The Congress Party on Wednesday expressed grave concern over the rising insecurity faced by religious minorities in Bangladesh, following the recent arrest of Hindu leader Chinmoy Krishna Das. In a statement, Pawan Khera, Chairman of the party’s Media and Publicity Department, urged the Indian government to take immediate steps to address the deteriorating situation in Bangladesh, particularly with regard to the safety and security of minorities.

Khera emphasized, “The Indian National Congress expects the government of India to prevail upon the Bangladesh government to take necessary steps and ensure security of life and property of minorities in the country.” He further stated that the arrest of the ISKCON monk is a stark example of the growing challenges faced by religious minorities in the country.

Chinmoy Krishna Das, a prominent spokesperson for Bangladesh Sammilita Sanatani Jagran Jote, was detained on November 25, 2024, at Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on charges of sedition. A day later, a court in Chattogram denied him bail and sent him to jail. The arrest occurred amid clashes between Das’ supporters and security personnel, resulting in the tragic killing of a lawyer during the unrest.

India had earlier expressed “deep concern” over the arrest, calling for the protection of Hindus and other minority communities in Bangladesh. The Ministry of External Affairs urged Bangladeshi authorities to ensure the safety of religious minorities, particularly in light of the increased attacks on places of worship and properties.

Bangladesh, however, sharply criticized India’s statement, calling it “unfounded” and contrary to the spirit of the friendship between the two neighboring nations. The Bangladeshi government also asserted its stance that the country’s judiciary is independent and operates without interference.

The ongoing developments have raised alarm among international human rights organizations, who are calling for a deeper focus on protecting minority rights and ensuring the safety of activists like Chinmoy Krishna Das.