A hearing regarding the bail application of Chinmoy Krishna Das, a Hindu saint imprisoned in Bangladesh, took place today, Thursday, in the Chittagong Metropolitan Sessions Judge's court. After hearing arguments from both sides, lasting approximately 30 minutes, Judge Mohammad Saiful Islam rejected the bail plea.
Dhaka: A Chittagong court today denied bail to former ISKCON leader Chinmoy Krishna Das following a hearing held under tight security. This decision was reported by Bangladeshi media. Metropolitan Public Prosecutor Advocate Mofizur Rahman Bhuiyan stated that after approximately 30 minutes of hearing arguments from both sides, Chittagong Metropolitan Sessions Judge Mohammad Saiful Islam dismissed the bail petition.
Charges Against Chinmoy Krishna Das
The situation surrounding Chinmoy Krishna Das has become increasingly complex amidst accusations of sedition and unrest in Bangladesh. On December 3, 2024, the Chittagong court scheduled a hearing for January 2, 2025, on his bail plea, as the prosecution submitted a time petition and no lawyer was present to represent Chinmoy.
The sedition case began after Chinmoy Krishna Das was accused of hoisting a saffron flag above the Bangladeshi national flag in Chittagong on October 25. His arrest on November 25 sparked protests. Violent clashes occurred outside the Chittagong court building on November 27, resulting in the death of a lawyer.
Subsequent arrests followed, with two ISKCON monks also taken into custody. Additionally, incidents of vandalism at the ISKCON center occurred. The Indian government expressed concern over the escalating violence and attacks on minorities in Bangladesh. The Ministry of External Affairs raised the issue with Dhaka and emphasized the protection of religious minorities in Bangladesh.
In December 2024, former Indian High Commissioner Vina Sikri wrote an open letter regarding Chinmoy Krishna Das, mentioning the steps taken and demands made to protect his minority rights. Chinmoy had made an eight-point demand for the safety of religious minorities in Bangladesh, including demands for laws, a security ministry, tribunals, compensation, and temple security for minorities.
