India concerned by ‘surge of extremism, violence’ against Hindus in Bangladesh: ‘Arrest of Chinmoy Das is…’

Indian authorities reiterated calls for Bangladesh to ‘protect minorities’ on Friday amid growing outrage over the arrest of a Hindu priest. One person was killed and several others were injured this week as protesters clashed with the police in Chittagong and Dhaka. The developments came soon after Chinmoy Krishna Das was denied bail this week following his arrest for ‘disrespecting the Bangladeshi flag’ during a rally.

“Cases against individuals and legal processes are underway. We hope and expect that these processes will be dealt with in a fair, just and transparent manner ensuring full respect for these individuals and all those who are concerned,” said MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.

The Ministry of External Affairs also reiterated its stance on ISKON as a “globally well-regarded organisation with a strong record of social service” during the briefing on Friday. It remains unclear whether Das is a member of the grouping at present — with representatives claiming that he had been expelled some time earlier. 

“We expelled Chinmoy long before the case was filed against him for breaching ISKCON’s discipline. He was relieved of his duties, but he defied the order and continued his activities,” ISKON Bangladesh president Satya Ranjan Barai told AFP on Friday.