Washington DC [US]: Johnnie Moore, a former Commissioner of the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), strongly criticized the interim government of Bangladesh, led by Muhammad Yunus, for its failure to protect religious minorities.
In an interview, Moore highlighted escalating threats to minority communities in Bangladesh, stating:
“There isn’t a minority in the country that doesn’t feel under threat right now. This is an existential threat not only for the minorities of Bangladesh but for the entire country.”
Arrest of Hindu Priest Chinmoy Krishna Das
Moore condemned the arrest of Hindu priest Chinmoy Krishna Das, who faces sedition charges for allegedly raising a flag with Bangladesh’s national emblem. He emphasized that such actions are deeply unsettling for minority communities:
“The perception is, if they’ll go after him, they’ll go after any of us.”
The priest’s arrest, coupled with the subsequent murder of his defense lawyer during protests, has become a rallying point in Bangladesh. Moore criticized the government for failing to uphold the rule of law:
“You cannot have a vibrant democratic country if the rule of law becomes so inefficient that a lawyer is killed instead of due process being ensured.”
Criticism of Muhammad Yunus and Government Leadership
Moore expressed disappointment in Muhammad Yunus, the interim leader, accusing him of neglecting his primary duty of ensuring public safety:
“As the interim leader, there are no aspirations for the Bangladeshi people if basic safety and protection cannot be ensured. Yunus is failing.”
He also voiced concern over reports suggesting Bangladesh’s Attorney General is pushing to remove the word “secular” from the constitution amidst increasing violence against minorities.
Call for Action and International Support
Moore urged Bangladesh to seek guidance from countries like India and the United States, which manage pluralistic societies despite challenges:
“Bangladesh should ask for advice from India and the United States. These are incredibly pluralistic countries. Not perfect, but they’ve found ways to manage religious diversity.”
He also criticized the government’s dismissive response to the crisis:
“A leader takes such issues seriously. Diminishing these events only exacerbates the problem.”Risk to Bangladesh’s Global Relationships
Moore warned that Bangladesh’s handling of minority rights could strain its ties with neighboring India:
“This crisis risks denying Bangladeshi people the benefits of a close relationship with India, an economic, technological, and political powerhouse.”
Solidarity with Religious Minorities
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) expressed solidarity with Chinmoy Krishna Das, while Moore assured the Hindu community of support from the global Christian community.
This unfolding crisis underscores the urgent need for stronger safeguards for religious freedom and the protection of minorities in Bangladesh.