Dhaka, (Bangladesh) November 28: Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday condemned the "unjust" arrest of former ISKCON priest Chinmoy Krishna Das, calling for his immediate release. She also expressed deep concern over ongoing attacks on religious minorities and their places of worship across the country.
Hasina criticized the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, describing him as a senior leader of the Sanatan religious community. "This arrest is unjust, and I demand his immediate release," she said in a statement. "Temples have been set ablaze in Chittagong, and there have been repeated attacks on mosques, shrines, churches, monasteries, and the homes of the Ahmadiyya community. The religious freedom and safety of all communities must be safeguarded."
In her statement, Hasina also condemned the broader climate of violence and intolerance, noting the growing list of targeted attacks. "The religious freedom and security of our people are under threat," she said, emphasizing the need for stronger protection of all religious groups in Bangladesh.
Further, Hasina criticized the interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, for what she described as harassment of her political party, the Awami League. "The regime has killed countless Awami League leaders, activists, and law enforcement officers. Now, they are resorting to attacks, lawsuits, and arbitrary arrests," Hasina said. "I strongly protest these anarchic actions and the targeting of political opponents."
She also referred to the recent murder of an advocate in Chittagong, which has further fueled fears of escalating violence. "I strongly condemn this heinous act. The perpetrators must be identified and brought to justice immediately. This murder is a violation of human rights, and those responsible must face severe punishment."
Chinmoy Krishna Das, a former ISKCON priest, was arrested on charges of sedition for allegedly raising a flag on a stand that displayed Bangladesh's national flag. He was presented before a court in Chittagong on Tuesday, where his bail application was rejected and he was sent into custody. The arrest has sparked widespread outrage, with many calling for his release.
In a related development, local media reported that a lawyer filed a petition demanding a ban on the ISKCON movement in Bangladesh, accusing it of being a "radical organization" involved in activities that could incite communal unrest.
Hasina also took aim at the interim government, accusing it of "unlawfully seizing power" and engaging in "direct and indirect persecution" of ordinary citizens. "The people of Bangladesh deserve better," she said, urging the restoration of democracy and the protection of citizens' rights.
