New Delhi: India on Tuesday said it had noted with deep concern the arrest and denial of bail to prominent Bangladeshi Hindu leader Chinmoy Krishna Das, who was arrested from Dhaka airport a day ago.
Chinmoy Krishna Das, who has actively campaigned for minority rights in Bangladesh, is also the spokesperson of the Bangladesh Sammilit Sanatan Jagran Jote.
ISKCON leader Das was arrested in the wake of the controversial accusation of sedition levied at him a month earlier after he led a massive rally of Hindus with a saffron flag in Chittagong instead of the Bangladesh national flag.
He was arrested as he was about to take a flight to Chittagong.
India said in a statement: “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.
“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.
“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,” India said.
His arrest sparked outrage among the Hindu community as well as created fears for his safety, as Chinmoy Krishna Das has been a strong voice against the several incidents of violence against Hindus and other religious minorities in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh has witnessed a marked increase in the attacks on minorities after the ouster of ex-PM Sheikh Hasina on August 5 by a “student”-led protest.
India has repeatedly urged the interim government led by Chief Advisor Mohammed Younus to protect the rights of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh.
