India voices concern over arrest of Hindu monk in Bangladesh, urges govt to ensure minority protection

India has expressed deep concern following the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, a prominent Hindu monk and spokesperson for the Bangladesh Sammilit Sanatan Jagran Jote.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement on Tuesday, condemning the arrest and the denial of bail to the religious leader. The Indian government has also voiced alarm over the escalating violence against Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh, including several documented incidents of arson, looting, and attacks on religious sites.

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In the official statement, the MEA stressed, “We have noted with deep concern the arrest and denial of bail to Chinmoy Krishna Das, who is also the spokesperson of the Bangladesh Sammilit Sanatan Jagran Jote. This incident follows the multiple attacks on Hindus and other minorities by extremist elements in Bangladesh.” The statement goes on to express India’s disappointment that while the perpetrators of these violent acts remain unpunished, a religious leader advocating for peaceful protests has been targeted by the authorities.

Das’ arrest took place on November 25 at Dhaka Airport, where he was detained by the Detective Branch of Dhaka Police. His arrest has triggered widespread protests across Bangladesh, with demonstrations erupting in Dhaka, Chittagong, and other regions of the country. Protesters have demanded his immediate release, highlighting the growing concerns about the safety and security of religious minorities, particularly Hindus, in Bangladesh.

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Protests and Growing Tensions in Bangladesh

The protests began shortly after news of Chinmoy Krishna Das’ detention spread. Demonstrators, including members of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) and the Hindu community, gathered in the Shahbagh area of Dhaka, raising slogans and blocking key roads. Several individuals were reportedly injured during the protests after being attacked by unidentified assailants. Similar protests were seen in Chittagong, where demonstrators used mobile flashlights to show solidarity for the detained monk.

The unrest was sparked by Das’ role as a vocal critic of the rising violence against Hindus in Bangladesh. His arrest is linked to a rally he had addressed earlier in October, where he was accused of disrespecting the Bangladeshi flag. The charges against him are seen by many as politically motivated, with critics suggesting that the arrest is part of a broader crackdown on those who speak out against the treatment of religious minorities in the country.

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The arrest also comes amid growing reports of violence targeting Hindus, including attacks on temples, businesses, and homes. In recent months, extremist groups have been blamed for several incidents of arson, vandalism, and desecration of religious sites. These attacks have led to a sense of insecurity within Bangladesh’s minority communities, who are now calling for stronger protection and a more decisive response from the government.

India’s Urgent Call for Action

In light of the ongoing protests and the concerning treatment of minorities in Bangladesh, India has called on the Bangladeshi authorities to ensure the safety and security of religious minorities, including their right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression. The MEA statement urges the government of Bangladesh to protect the fundamental rights of all its citizens, regardless of their religious background.

The situation has also drawn political attention in India, with BJP MP Sukanta Majumdar condemning the arrest and urging External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to intervene in the matter. Majumdar has called for “urgent steps” to address the situation and ensure the safety of Hindus in Bangladesh.

A Broader Issue of Minority Rights

The arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das and the subsequent protests highlight the ongoing challenges faced by religious minorities in Bangladesh. Despite being a secular state, Bangladesh has witnessed a rise in religious intolerance and extremist violence, particularly targeting the Hindu community. Many have expressed concerns that the government has failed to adequately address the issue of religious persecution, with perpetrators of violence often going unpunished.

The Indian government’s concerns are particularly heightened given the long-standing cultural and religious ties between the two nations. As neighbouring countries with shared historical and cultural connections, India has consistently advocated for the protection of minority rights in Bangladesh. The latest developments underscore the urgency for both governments to engage in dialogue and ensure that the safety of all citizens is guaranteed, irrespective of their religious affiliation.