India Condemns Arrest of Hindu Leader in Bangladesh, Urges Protection for Minorities

India on Tuesday has strongly condemned the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, a leader of the Hindu group Sammilita Sanatani Jote in Bangladesh. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed deep concern over the incident, which follows a series of violent attacks on minorities in Bangladesh. The Indian government urged the Bangladeshi authorities to ensure the safety and security of minority communities in the country.

In an official statement, the MEA noted, "We have observed 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." The statement also highlighted that this incident comes amid ongoing attacks by extremist elements targeting minorities, particularly Hindus. "There have been several documented instances of arson, looting of minority homes and businesses, theft, vandalism, and the desecration of deities and temples," the MEA added.

The Indian government also expressed concern about the unfair treatment of religious leaders in Bangladesh. "It is unfortunate that while the perpetrators of these attacks remain at large, charges have been pressed against a religious leader who was merely presenting legitimate demands through peaceful gatherings," the statement said. Furthermore, the MEA noted with alarm the increasing violence against minorities who have been protesting peacefully against the arrest of Shri Das.

The Ministry urged Bangladesh to take swift action to protect the rights of minorities. "We also note with concern the attacks on minorities protesting peacefully against the arrest of Shri Das," the statement continued, calling on Bangladesh to uphold the right to peaceful assembly and expression for all its citizens. "We urge Bangladesh authorities to ensure the safety and security of Hindus and all minorities," wrote the MEA.

Chinmoy Krishna Das, a leader of the Hindu group Sammilita Sanatani Jote, was arrested on Monday at the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka. The police took him into custody without disclosing the specific charges against him. A Bangladeshi news website, Bdnews24, reported that a court in Chattogram rejected his bail request on Tuesday, leading to his detention. His followers gathered outside the court and began chanting slogans in protest of the decision.

Das had been implicated in a case filed in late October, accusing him and others of disrespecting Bangladesh's national flag during a rally in Chattogram’s New Market area. The case, filed by the local police, named 19 individuals, including Das, in connection with the alleged incident.​