ISKCON Bangladesh Condemns Arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das and Calls for Government Action

ISKCON Bangladesh has issued a statement expressing its alarm and condemnation regarding the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, who serves as the spokesperson for the "Bangladesh Sammilito Sanatani Jagaran Jot". They highlighted their anxiety over recent violent incidents against members of the Sanatani community in various regions, calling on the government authorities to promote an environment of peaceful coexistence.

In their statement, ISKCON emphasized the importance of free speech and the role of Chinmoy Krishna Das in advocating for the rights of minority groups within Bangladesh. They stressed that he deserves fair treatment and justice as a citizen, pointing out that discrimination against the Sanatani community must be firmly opposed.

The organization outlined three specific demands for government action. These included holding accountable those responsible for the attacks on Sanatanis, safeguarding the civil rights of Chinmoy Krishna Das and his community, and implementing effective measures to maintain social harmony among all citizens.

As a significant representative of the Gaudiya Vaishnav tradition, ISKCON Bangladesh committed itself to protecting the religious freedoms of all minorities, including Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians. They have continually urged the interim government and community leaders to ensure constitutional protections for these groups and to allow their full participation in societal matters.

Reiterating their commitment to Bangladesh as their birthplace, ISKCON expressed their desire for cooperation with current and future governments to ensure justice for all citizens, enabling everyone to practice their religion freely. They called for the promotion of human values and religious tolerance, advocating for actions that would restore peace and communal unity.

Chinmoy Krishna Das was arrested on charges of sedition, related to an incident involving the national flag, but support from minority leaders like those at the Bangladesh Hindu Bouddha Christian Unity Council has emerged, urging his immediate release. Concerns have also been raised regarding the potential impact of this arrest on Bangladesh’s reputation for human rights and freedom of expression.