New Delhi (November 26, 2024). The Centre for Democracy, Pluralism, and Human Rights (CDPHR) strongly condemns the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, a revered ISKCON monk and vocal advocate for the rights and dignity of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh. Detained by the Detective Branch of Bangladesh Police at Dhaka Airport on November 25, 2024, his arrest raises serious concerns about the safety of minority voices in
the current political climate of Bangladesh.
Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari has been a pivotal figure in highlighting the persecution of Hindu minorities, advocating for justice amidst escalating violence following the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government. He has consistently spoken out against attacks on temples, homes, and businesses of religious minorities.
The sedition charges levied against him appear to be a deliberate attempt to silence his legitimate activism, marking an alarming deterioration of democratic and pluralistic values in Bangladesh. The current military-backed interim government led by Mohammad Yunus has shown a troubling inability to curb violence against minorities, enabling an atmosphere of fear and repression. The Hindu community, which constitutes approximately 8 percent of Bangladesh’s population, faces growing threats to its survival and dignity under the regime’s apparent appeasement of radical elements.
CDPHR calls upon the Government of Bangladesh to:
- Immediately release Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari and ensure his safety.
- Uphold democratic principles and the rule of law by ceasing the misuse of sedition laws against peaceful activists.
- Address the broader concerns of minority protection and religious harmony.
‘We urge international human rights organizations, civil society and media to take swift and decisive action to ensure justice for Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari and to safeguard the fundamental rights of minorities in Bangladesh. Furthermore, we urge the Indian government to address this matter with the relevant Bangladeshi authorities through appropriate diplomatic channels, emphasizing the urgent need for action.
The arrest of a leader advocating for non-violence and inclusivity not only jeopardizes his personal freedom but also endangers the principles of justice and equality. This is a critical moment for Bangladesh to reflect on its commitment to pluralism and for the international community to reaffirm its dedication to human rights.
Dr. Prerna Malhotra (President)
