Dhaka’s arrest of Hindu leader for sedition: India expresses concern
text_fieldsNew Delhi: Over Bangladesh arresting Hindu leader Krishna Das Prabhu, who was accused of disrespecting Bangladesh’s national flag and denying him bail, India expressed “deep concern”, The Indian Express reported.
New Delhi urged Dhaka to ensure the safety and security of Hindus and all minorities in Bangladesh.
It was on Monday that Prabhu, who is also known as Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, got arrested in Dhaka’s main airport under charges of sedition. The case against him was filed in October when he allegedly disrespected the Bangladeshi flag in a huge rally.
Prabhu is a prominent Hindu leader and a member of the Bangladesh Sammilito Sanatan Jagaran Jote group. He is also associated with the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON).
Indian Ministry of External Affairs released a statement on Tuesday, “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. This incident follows the multiple attacks on Hindus and other minorities by extremist elements in Bangladesh. There are several documented cases of arson and looting of minorities’ homes and business establishments, as well as theft and vandalism and desecration of deities and temples.”
Our statement on the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das:https://t.co/HbaFUPWds0 pic.twitter.com/cdgSx6iUQb
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) November 26, 2024
“It is unfortunate that while the perpetrators of these incidents remain at large, charges should be pressed against a religious leader presenting legitimate demands through peaceful gatherings. We also note with concern the attacks on minorities protesting peacefully against the arrest of Shri Das,” the MEA said.
“We urge Bangladesh authorities to ensure the safety and security of Hindus and all minorities, including their right of freedom of peaceful assembly and expression,” the statement said.