The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) and Congress have expressed growing concerns over escalating attacks on Hindu monks in Bangladesh, urging the Indian government to intervene and protect minorities. The latest incident involves the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, an ISKCON leader, who was detained on sedition charges while advocating for the protection of Hindus in Bangladesh. This marks the culmination of a series of attacks over the past three months, according to ISKCON spokesperson Radharaman Das.
ISKCON has formally reached out to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs and the Union Home Ministry, calling for diplomatic pressure on Bangladesh to prevent further attacks. “The situation has become alarming,” said Das. He emphasized that these threats, primarily from Islamist groups, are not just directed at ISKCON but also at other Hindu organizations such as the Ramakrishna Mission. Despite repeated pleas, the authorities in Bangladesh have failed to act decisively, leading to fears of growing violence.
Further raising alarm, ISKCON has appealed to the United Nations to take immediate action, urging the global body to ensure the release of Chinmoy Krishna Das and to protect the rights of Bangladesh’s Hindu minority. Das has been an outspoken advocate for the safety of minorities, stating that they are an integral part of the nation.
On the political front, Congress has echoed these concerns. A recent statement from the party urged the Indian government to press the Bangladesh authorities to ensure the safety of Hindus, highlighting the increasing insecurity faced by minorities in the region. The party’s call for action has received support from various quarters, adding pressure on both governments to address the issue.
As tensions rise, ISKCON plans to organize protests in over 150 countries on October 23, demanding justice for the victims of these attacks.