Protests in Mumbai over arrest of ISKCON priest, attack on Hindus in Bangladesh

Protesters demand release of ISKCON priest in Bangladesh, highlighting attacks on minority Hindus, drawing political criticism and calls for action.

Hundreds of protesters, including members of right-wing groups such as the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP), gathered outside the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission in Mumbai on Monday (December 2, 2024), demanding the immediate release of ISKCON priest Chinmoy Krishna Das, who was recently detained in the neighbouring country.

The protesters, led by religious leaders and activists, voiced concerns over what they described as “targeted attacks on minority Hindus” in Bangladesh. BJP MLA and former Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha also joined the protest.

Bangladesh’s minority Hindus, who constitute about 8% of the country’s 170 million population, have reportedly faced over 200 attacks in 50-odd districts since the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government on August 5.

“Over 500 people, including sadhus, saints, and members of the public, participated in the demonstration,” VHP national spokesperson Shriraj Nair told The Hindu. “The situation of Hindus in Bangladesh is alarming. The government there must act to protect our fellow Hindus, who are minorities in that country.”

After the protest, a memorandum was submitted to the Deputy High Commissioner, highlighting the group’s concerns. The memorandum condemned the arrest of the ISKCON priest, citing it as a violation of democratic and religious freedoms.

“The recent arrest raises serious concerns about freedom of speech, association, and religious practice, as well as the protection of minority communities in Bangladesh,” the memorandum read. “Attacks on Hindu families, especially women and children, are unacceptable in any civilised society. The perpetrators are moving freely, emboldened by government inaction.”

The VHP urged the Bangladeshi government to ensure the safety and security of all its citizens, including minorities, and provide an environment conducive to practicing their religion. They also criticised the sedition charges against Das, calling them baseless and retaliatory.