The arrest of Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das, President of Pundarik Dham and a leading figure in Bangladesh’s Hindu community, has ignited protests in both Bangladesh and India. Das was detained by men in plain clothes claiming to be Bangladeshi police detectives while traveling from Dhaka to Chittagong. He, along with 17 others, has been charged with sedition under controversial circumstances. Authorities allege that during an October protest, a saffron flag was raised higher than the Bangladeshi national flag—claims that ISKCON leader Radha Ramn Das called “a misunderstanding.”
The incident has intensified ongoing protests by Bangladesh’s minority communities, who report a surge in violence over the past 100 days, including kidnappings and sexual assaults. Speaking on the matter, Radha Ramn Das said, “The arrest is not just about Chinmoy Krishna Das. It is an attempt to suppress the voices of the Hindu minority in Bangladesh who are speaking out against relentless violence.”
In India, the response has been swift and vocal, particularly from the BJP in West Bengal. Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari warned of escalating protests, including a march to the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission and demonstrations at the India-Bangladesh border. “India will not stand by as Hindus are oppressed in Bangladesh,” Adhikari declared. BJP leader Dilip Ghosh accused Bangladeshi authorities of targeting Hindus to stifle dissent, stating, “This arrest is a clear attempt to silence those who speak out against atrocities.”
Religious leaders in India have also condemned the arrest. Acharya Satyendra Das, Chief Priest of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, likened the treatment of Hindus in Bangladesh to historical persecution in Pakistan. Spiritual leader Sadhguru called the situation “disgraceful,” accusing Bangladesh of sliding toward autocracy.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs expressed grave concern, urging Bangladeshi authorities to ensure justice and protect minorities. The arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das has become a symbol of the broader struggle for the rights of Hindus and minorities in Bangladesh, galvanizing support across political and religious lines in India. The demand for justice continues to grow louder.