India has expressed serious concerns over the arrest and denial of bail to Chinmoy Krishna Das, a prominent Hindu leader and spokesperson for the Bangladesh Sammilit Sanatan Jagran Jote. This incident has heightened tensions, as it comes amid a broader pattern of alleged attacks on Hindus and other minority communities in Bangladesh.
In a statement, India’s Ministry of External Affairs criticized the targeting of Das, who was reportedly advocating peacefully for minority rights. The ministry highlighted instances of arson, looting, vandalism, and desecration of temples, expressing dismay over the lack of accountability for the perpetrators of such violence. The ministry also called on Bangladesh to safeguard the rights of minorities, ensuring their security and freedom to protest peacefully.
The arrest has drawn sharp criticism from Hindu organizations like the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), which labeled the action “cowardly and undemocratic.” Bajrang Lal Bagra, the VHP’s international general secretary, condemned the move as a violation of human rights and a silencing of peaceful minority voices. The VHP also criticized the Indian government for not taking stronger action to protect Hindus in Bangladesh.
This episode underscores ongoing challenges in Bangladesh concerning minority rights and raises questions about bilateral relations between India and Bangladesh, as India seeks to ensure the safety of Hindus and other minorities in the neighboring country.