• Source:JND
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Bangladesh's political landscape has plunged into chaos since the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on August 5. Extremist groups have reportedly targeted minorities, escalating the crisis and sparking calls for the protection of religious minorities in both Bangladesh.

The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) has also come under intense scrutiny since the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, a former ISKCON leader, for allegedly disrespecting Bangladesh’s national flag. His detention in Dhaka on November 25 triggered further unrest as Hindu devotees clashed with security forces.

ISKCON leaders have distanced the organisation from Das' actions but reiterated support for his right to peacefully advocate for minority protection. Despite denials of bail, Das is expected to appear in Bangladesh’s top court, a development closely watched by both Bangladeshis and Indian officials.

ISKCON’s spokesperson, Radharamn Das, stated that 63 monks were blocked from entering India despite possessing valid visas, heightening tensions. Reports indicate that over 200 attacks on Hindus have occurred since August, with Bangladesh’s authorities even freezing the bank accounts of ISKCON affiliates.

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Minority Demands For Protection

Minorities in Bangladesh, led by groups like the Sammilita Sanatani Jagran Jote, have presented an eight-point list of demands to the government. These include establishing a Special Tribunal to expedite justice in cases of religious persecution, enacting a Minority Protection Law and creating a Ministry for Minority Affairs. They also seek the recovery of temple properties and the implementation of prayer rooms in educational institutions to accommodate diverse religious practices.

Demonstrators shout slogans during a protest against what they say is violence against Hindu communities during ongoing unrest, in Dhaka

Demonstrators shout slogans during unrest in Dhaka Bangladesh. (Image: Reuters)

India's Concern And Diplomatic Pressure

India has expressed ''deep concern'' over the ongoing violence and the arrest of Hindu leaders. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) labelled Das's arrest ''unfortunate,'' emphasising the need for a ''fair and transparent trial.'' India has urged Bangladesh to protect minority rights and curb extremist rhetoric. However, Bangladesh has pushed back, claiming India’s statements misrepresent the situation and strain diplomatic ties.

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Human rights groups have alleged that minority communities in Bangladesh, primarily Hindus, Buddhists and Christians, have faced violence and discrimination. According to the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (2022), Muslims constitute 91 per cent of the population, while minorities make up less than 9 per cent. Indigenous groups like the Chakma and Marma have also suffered marginalisation. Human rights advocates stress that Bangladesh’s legal framework fails to deliver justice for persecuted minorities, underscoring the need for structural reforms.