The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) has firmly denied allegations that it has distanced itself from Chinmoy Krishna Das, a Hindu monk recently arrested in Bangladesh on sedition charges. In a public statement, ISKCON affirmed its unwavering support for Das and emphasised the importance of safeguarding Hindu rights in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh’s Hindu minority has been facing escalating attacks, particularly after the interim government of Muhammad Yunus. Transparency International Bangladesh has documented over 2,000 communal incidents since August 2024, with violence against Hindu individuals, businesses, and temples. Activists and organizations like the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council report increasing insecurity, especially during religious events like Durga Puja. Tens of thousands of Hindus have held protests for protection and justice.

The Hindu reported that 205 attacks across 52 districts have targeted two Hindu organizations and minority community members in Bangladesh as a result of the Sheikh Hasina government’s backlash.

ISKCON Statement on Chinmoy Krishna Das

“ISKCON has not, and does not, distance itself from supporting Chinmoy Krishna Das’s rights and freedom for peacefully calling for protecting Hindus and their places of worship,” the organisation said. This declaration of solidarity counters claims from Bangladeshi media that ISKCON denied involvement with Das’s activities.

Das was arrested on November 25 in Chittagong, accused of sedition, after allegedly disrespecting the Bangladeshi national flag during a rally advocating for Hindu minority rights. The organisation clarified in its statements that ISKCON expelled him in October 2023 and that he does not officially represent ISKCON Bangladesh.

Allegations Against ISKCON

Following Das’s arrest, ISKCON Bangladesh also addressed allegations linking the organisation to violent protests. These protests led to clashes and the killing of a lawyer, sparking further tensions. “ISKCON Bangladesh is facing a series of false, fabricated, and malicious campaigns,” declared Charu Chandra Das Brahmachari, the general secretary of ISKCON Bangladesh. He described the accusations as attempts to discredit the organisation and incite societal unrest.

Broader Context of Violence and Persecution

Das’s arrest and subsequent denial of bail have intensified existing concerns about minority rights in Bangladesh. According to reports, mobs attacked three Hindu temples in Chittagong while protests were still ongoing. The vandalism of the Shantaneshwari Matri Temple, Shoni Temple, and Shantaneshwari Kalibari Temple highlighted the vulnerability of Hindu communities in the country.

Additionally, the arrest of another Hindu priest, Shyam Das Prabhu, who was detained without a warrant after attempting to visit Chinmoy Krishna Das in jail, has exacerbated tensions. The incident reflects broader issues surrounding the treatment of Hindu minorities under the interim government led by economist Muhammad Yunus.

India’s Response

The developments have drawn international attention, with India reminding the Bangladeshi government of its obligation to protect minority communities. New Delhi has urged the interim administration to ensure an environment of peaceful coexistence for all religious groups in the country.

Calls for Unity and Action

ISKCON reaffirmed its commitment to working with other Hindu and Sanatani groups to advocate for the safety of Hindu minorities and peaceful coexistence in Bangladesh. “We support, along with all other Sanatani groups, the protection and safety of Hindus and re-establishing an atmosphere of peaceful coexistence with minorities in Bangladesh,” the statement concluded.

The organisation’s stance underscores the need for a collective effort to address the rising violence and persecution against minorities, calling for justice and a harmonious society amidst growing unrest.

Let’s see what the Modi government will say about the protection of Hindus in Bangladesh.