The bail hearing for Chinmoy Krishna Das, a former ISKCON leader and spokesperson for the Sammilito Sanatan Jot, has been postponed to January 2, 2024, as no lawyer was available to represent him. Reports suggest that lawyers willing to appear on his behalf were allegedly threatened and even attacked, deterring them from attending the hearing.
At an initial hearing on December 3, 2024, the Chattogram Metropolitan Sessions Judge Md. Saiful Islam scheduled the next hearing for January 2. According to Chattogram Metropolitan Police ADC (Prosecution) Mofizur Rahman, Mr. Das will remain in custody until the court rules on his bail plea.
Intimidation and Violence Targeting Lawyers
Local reports allege that lawyers supporting Mr. Das faced significant threats. Some were reportedly beaten, and others were intimidated into skipping the court session. Advocate Ramen Roy, a prominent defender of Hindu leaders, was attacked in connection with his role in advocating for Mr. Das.
The Chattogram Bar Association held a protest march at the court premises, condemning the threats and violence against legal professionals. A heavy security presence was deployed in and around the court area during the hearing, although Mr. Das was not brought to court.
Background of the Case:
Mr. Das, a vocal advocate for Bangladesh’s Hindu minority, was arrested at Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on November 25, 2024, on charges of sedition. He was denied bail on November 26 and sent to jail, triggering protests from his supporters. Reports also indicate that one lawyer was killed during unrest in Chattogram related to his arrest.
After the initial bail denial, Mr. Das’s legal team filed a revision petition, seeking another hearing. However, no progress was made as violence and intimidation disrupted proceedings.
The arrest has heightened tensions between India and Bangladesh, particularly following the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus. India has expressed concerns over increasing violence and atrocities against minority Hindus in Bangladesh.
Reports from human rights groups indicate a surge in attacks on Hindus, exacerbating fears of escalating persecution under the new administration. The arrest of Mr. Das is seen by some as part of a broader pattern of targeting minority leaders in the country.