DHAKA, Nov 28: In a significant ruling, the Dhaka High Court on Thursday declined to ban the activities of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in Bangladesh. The court stated that such a ban was unnecessary, as the government had already taken appropriate actions to monitor the situation.
The court was hearing a petition filed by lawyer Md Monir Uddin, who sought a prohibition on ISKCON’s activities, citing increased communal tensions in the country following the arrest of ISKCON leader Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari. The petitioner also requested the enforcement of Section 144 in Chattogram, Rangpur, and Dinajpur to prevent potential unrest.
During the hearing, Attorney General Mohammad Asaduzzaman labeled ISKCON a “religious fundamentalist” organization and advocated for its ban. He assured the court that the government was closely monitoring ISKCON’s activities. However, the court refrained from imposing the ban, signaling a setback for the government amidst rising communal tensions.
Meanwhile, another attack on a Hindu temple in Chattogram on Wednesday has further heightened concerns. Extremist groups in Bangladesh have escalated their rhetoric, accusing ISKCON of being a “terrorist organization” and issuing death threats against its devotees. The Hindu community continues to demand stronger laws and the establishment of a dedicated minority affairs ministry to safeguard their rights.
The arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das has sparked protests across Bangladesh, with hundreds of people demanding his release and justice for the Hindu minority. Demonstrators have also called on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene. However, Bangladesh’s foreign ministry has firmly responded, cautioning India against interfering in its internal affairs.
The protests coincide with a broader rise in violence against minorities, including Hindus, in Bangladesh. Attacks have reportedly increased following Sheikh Hasina’s departure from power, adding to the concerns of minority communities.
India has condemned the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das and urged the Bangladeshi government to ensure the safety and security of its minority populations. Despite India’s appeals, Bangladesh’s government remains firm in treating the issue as an internal matter.
