In a development that has intensified communal tensions in Bangladesh, a plea was filed in the High Court on Wednesday seeking a ban on the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). The plea comes amid rising attacks on the Hindu community and the controversial arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, a prominent Hindu monk, on charges including sedition.

Arrest Sparks Protests and Violence

Chinmoy Krishna Das, president of Pundarik Dham and a key figure in Bangladesh’s Hindu community, was detained at Dhaka airport on Monday. His arrest triggered widespread protests across Dhaka and Chittagong. Demonstrators, primarily from the Hindu community, clashed with security forces, leaving one lawyer dead outside a Chittagong court. Authorities have arrested six suspects linked to the murder, identified through CCTV footage.

In addition, 21 individuals, including members of the ruling Awami League, have been detained for vandalism and assaulting law enforcement during the unrest. The tension has cast a spotlight on the fragile state of communal harmony in Bangladesh, a country that prides itself on religious coexistence.

The High Court has directed Attorney General Md. Asaduzzaman to update it on the governments response to ISKCONs activities and the plea for a ban.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs defended its actions, reiterating its commitment to upholding religious harmony and the rule of law. In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), the ministry expressed dismay over what it termed as the “misconstrued” nature of Chinmoy Krishna Das’s arrest, emphasizing that he was apprehended on specific legal charges.

Indias Reaction

The developments have drawn criticism from India. The Ministry of External Affairs in Delhi issued a strongly worded statement condemning the arrest and the denial of bail to Chinmoy Krishna Das. India expressed concerns over attacks on minorities in Bangladesh, citing incidents of arson, vandalism, and desecration of Hindu temples and deities.

We have noted with deep concern the arrest and denial of bail to Shri Chinmoy Krishna Das, who is also the spokesperson of the Bangladesh Sammilit Sanatan Jagran Jote It is unfortunate that while the perpetrators of these incidents remain at large, charges are pressed against a religious leader advocating peaceful demands, said the MEA.

India urged Bangladeshi authorities to ensure the safety of minorities and uphold their rights to peaceful assembly and expression.

Bangladesh responded sharply to India’s remarks, asserting that its government is committed to justice and communal harmony without bias. In its press release, the Bangladeshi Foreign Ministry stated, “The arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das has been misconstrued by certain quarters.”

Growing Concerns for Hindu Minorities

This latest episode underscores the challenges faced by Bangladesh’s Hindu minority, who make up less than 10% of the population. Rights groups have documented a rise in communal violence, including attacks on Hindu homes, businesses, and places of worship.

Observers fear that the current tensions could further strain relations between the Hindu and Muslim communities. Analysts have urged both governments to work towards de-escalating tensions, addressing grievances, and ensuring justice for victims of communal violence.