Washington DC [US]: Johnnie Moore, the former Commissioner of the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), has voiced strong concern over the global community’s muted response to the ongoing persecution of minorities in Bangladesh.
In an interview with ANI, Moore emphasized the need for human rights organizations to act decisively.
“Human rights organizations and religious freedom advocates must raise their voices consistently. Unfortunately, when the Hindu community faces persecution globally, fewer voices speak up. I am committing to changing that and urging others to do the same,” Moore said.
Arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das Sparks Outrage
Moore’s remarks come amid widespread criticism of the recent arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, the spokesperson of the Bangladesh Sammilit Sanatan Jagran Jote, on sedition charges. Das was accused of allegedly raising a flag on a stand displaying Bangladesh’s national flag.
The arrest has sparked protests and condemnation from religious and political leaders, including former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who called for Das’s immediate release and stronger measures to protect minority rights.
“Temples have been set ablaze in Chittagong. Previously, mosques, churches, and Ahmadiyya community homes have faced similar attacks. The safety and religious freedom of all communities must be ensured,” Sheikh Hasina stated.
Criticism of the Biden Administration
Moore also criticized the Biden administration for not prioritizing Bangladesh in its foreign policy agenda.
“I am astonished at the lack of attention from the current administration. With over 50 conflicts globally, the Biden administration has failed to address critical issues like Bangladesh,” he said.
Moore expressed optimism about a potential policy shift with Donald Trump’s return to office, citing Trump’s commitment to religious freedom and stronger U.S.-India relations.
“Trump is coming to Washington with a team that views countries like India as indispensable allies in shaping the future of the world,” Moore added.
Growing International Concern
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) has expressed solidarity with Das and called for accountability for attacks on minorities. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has also condemned the arrest and highlighted a pattern of violence against Hindus and other minority communities in Bangladesh.
“There are documented cases of arson, looting, and desecration of temples and deities. We urge the Bangladeshi government to ensure the safety and security of minorities, including their right to peaceful assembly and expression,” the MEA stated.
Call to Action
Moore called this moment an existential threat not only for Bangladesh’s minorities but for the nation’s stability as a whole. He urged the global community to take collective action to ensure accountability and the protection of fundamental rights.
“This is a call for human rights and religious freedom advocates to speak up. The promises made by Bangladesh’s interim leadership must translate into tangible protections for all communities,” he concluded.
This crisis has underscored the urgent need for international advocacy and heightened accountability to safeguard religious freedoms and minority rights in Bangladesh.