ISKCON Bangladesh Denounces Arrest Of Chinmoy Das Amid Unrest In Country

ISKCON Bangladesh has denounced the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das and called upon the government authorities to promote peaceful coexistence. In response to the recent violence and attacks on Sanatanis in various parts of Bangladesh, ISKCON Bangladesh has issued a list of demands to the government.

"We express our serious concern and strongly denounce the recent arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, spokesperson for the "Bangladesh Sammilito Sanatani Jagaran Jot". We also condemn the subsequent violence and attacks against Sanatanis in various regions of Bangladesh. We urge the government authorities, to promote peaceful coexistence for the Sanatani community", the statement said.

"As a representative of the "Bangladesh Sammilito Sanatani Jagaran Jot" and a Bangladeshi citizen, Chinmoy Krishna Das has been a vocal advocate for the protection of minority groups in the nation. It is essential to uphold his right to free speech and to support his efforts to encourage others to defend this right. Ensuring justice and fair treatment for him is crucial", it further added.

It further stressed that any form of discrimination against Chinmoy Das and Sanatani community will not be tolerated. ISKCON Bangladesh listed three demands to "the Government and Relevant Authorities".

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These include identifying and holding accountable those responsible for the attacks on the Sanatani community, protecting the civil rights of Chinmoy Krishna Das and other Sanatanis and implementing immediate and effective measures to maintain peace and harmony among all communities in the country.

"As a leading Sanatani organisation within the Gaudiya Vaishnav tradition, the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in Bangladesh is dedicated to safeguarding the religious freedoms and rights of minorities, including Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, and others", the statement read.

According to a report by the Dhaka Tribune, Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari appeared before Judge Kazi Shariful Islam at the Chittagong Sixth Metropolitan Magistrate's Court at 11 am on Tuesday. Although his lawyers submitted a bail petition, it was denied, and he was ordered to be taken into custody.