Dhaka [Bangladesh]: Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has condemned the arrest of former ISKCON priest Chinmoy Krishna Das, describing it as “unjust,” and demanded his immediate release. She also voiced concerns over increasing attacks on religious minorities and their places of worship, calling for the protection of religious freedoms for all communities.
Key Statements from Sheikh Hasina:
- Demand for Release of ISKCON Priest:“A senior leader of the Sanatan religious community has been unjustly arrested, and I demand his immediate release,” Hasina stated.
Chinmoy Krishna Das was arrested on charges of sedition for allegedly raising a flag on a display stand bearing Bangladesh’s national flag. A Chittagong court denied his bail plea, sparking widespread outrage. - Condemnation of Religious Attacks:
Hasina highlighted recent attacks on temples in Chittagong and broader violence against minority groups, including the Ahmadiyya community, churches, mosques, and monasteries.”The religious freedom and safety of all communities must be ensured,” she emphasized.
Allegations Against the Interim Government:
Sheikh Hasina accused the current interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, of orchestrating harassment against Awami League leaders and creating an environment of anarchy.
- Targeting Political Opponents:“After killing countless leaders and activists of the Awami League… the regime is now resorting to harassment through attacks, lawsuits, and arrests,” she said.
- Failures of Governance:
Hasina criticized the interim regime for its inability to stabilize essential commodity prices and ensure public safety, condemning the “direct and indirect persecution of ordinary people.”
Widening Tensions
The arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das has heightened tensions in Bangladesh, with protests erupting across various communities. Local reports also indicate a petition demanding a ban on ISKCON, labeling it a “radical organization” accused of inciting communal unrest.
Other Concerns Raised:
- Murder of an Advocate in Chittagong:
Hasina condemned the recent killing of a lawyer in Chittagong, calling it a “gross violation of human rights” and demanding swift justice.”Those responsible… must be identified and brought to justice without delay,” she declared.
Political Turmoil in Bangladesh
The political crisis follows Hasina’s ousting earlier this year after student-led protests against a government job quota system escalated into a mass anti-government movement. The unrest led to the establishment of an interim government under Muhammad Yunus, a move Hasina has described as an “unlawful seizure of power.”
The situation continues to evolve, with widespread calls for reforms and increased scrutiny over the treatment of minority communities.