New Delhi [India]: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Hema Malini has urged the Indian government to ensure the safety of Hindu minorities, particularly Krishna devotees, in Bangladesh following a surge in violence against the community. She emphasized that the issue transcends foreign policy and is deeply tied to sentiments and cultural identity.
“We raised the issue of Bangladesh yesterday. I have demanded from my government to provide security to Krishna Bhakts and all Sanatani brothers in Bangladesh… This is not a matter of foreign policy; it is a matter of sentiments of Krishna bhakts,” said Hema Malini while speaking to ANI.
Rising Violence Against Hindu Minorities
Violence against Hindu minorities in Bangladesh has escalated, particularly following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina’s government in August. Attacks intensified after the arrest of Hindu spiritual leader Chinmoy Krishna Das, a prominent figure associated with the Sammilita Sanatani Jagaran Jote.
- Arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das:
- Das was arrested in Dhaka on November 25 following allegations of disrespecting Bangladesh’s national flag during a Hindu community rally.
- A Chattogram court has set the next hearing for January 2, 2025, denying bail for the accused, citing procedural delays.
- The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has criticized his arrest and the continued denial of bail.
- Additional Arrests and Threats:
- Two other monks, Adipurush Shyam Das and Ranganath Das Brahmachari, along with the secretary of Chinmoy Krishna Das, have also been detained.
- ISKCON has called for the protection of advocates associated with the case, highlighting recent attacks on lawyers representing Hindu leaders.
Legal and Communal Developments
A petition has been filed in Bangladesh seeking a ban on ISKCON, accusing it of inciting sectarian violence and imposing its beliefs on traditional Hindu communities. Local media reports claim that ISKCON has been alleged to forcibly recruit members from lower Hindu castes and engage in provocative religious events.
ISKCON Kolkata Vice President Radharaman urged the Bangladesh government to ensure the safety of all Hindu spiritual leaders and their advocates, condemning the narrative being propagated against ISKCON.
Outrage and Diplomatic Responses
The arrests and the rising attacks on Hindus have sparked widespread outrage across India and Bangladesh, with various organizations and individuals calling for immediate action to protect minority rights and ensure justice.