Hindu monk sent to jail in Bangladesh: Who is Chinmoy Krishna Das?

He was detained from the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport area in the capital, following which protests erupted in Chattogram demanding his release, according to the report.

Who is Chinmoy Krishna Das?

Chinmoy Krishna Das is the spokesperson of the newly-formed coalition, Bangladesh Sommilito Sanatan Jagaran Jot, between two religious bodies, namely, Bangladesh Sanatan Jagaran Manch and Bangladesh Sommilito Shankhaloghu Jot.

The Manch is a platform which advocates for the rights of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh.

Krishna is also the head of the Pundarik Dham in Chattogram. The Dham, according to the ISKCON Centres website, is located in Hathazari thana, about 18 kilometres away from Chittagong city.

On October 30, a case was filed against 19 people, including Krishna, at Chattogram’s Kotwali Police Station, accusing them of disrespecting Bangladesh’s national flag in Chattogram’s New Market area during a rally of the Hindu community, news agency PTI reported.

Following his detention on Monday, Krishna’s lawyers had filed a bail petition, which was eventually rejected by the court. Additional Police Commissioner of the DB, Rezaul Karim Mallik, confirmed the transfer on Tuesday morning.

‘It is unfortunate… urge authorities to ensure safety of Hindus’: MEA India

Soon after his arrest, the Ministry of External Affairs released a statement expressing “deep concern” over his denial of bail.

The statement read: “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.”

The MEA also urged Bangladesh authorities to ensure the safety of Hindus and minorities in the country. “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,” MEA highlighted.