Chandigarh, November 28, 2024 – The Dhaka High Court has refused to impose a ban on ISKCON, despite allegations of extremism and ongoing violence against minorities in Bangladesh. The decision follows protests by the Hindu community after ISKCON Bangladesh chief Chinmay Krishna Das was arrested on treason charges.
Tensions escalated after the death of lawyer Saiful Islam during these protests, leading to demands for action against ISKCON. High Court lawyer Mohammad Moniruddin presented reports alleging ISKCON’s involvement in inciting communal violence, religious intolerance, and unlawful recruitment. He sought a ban on the organization and the imposition of Section 144 in Chittagong, Rangpur, and Dinajpur. The court has asked the Attorney General to provide details of government measures addressing ISKCON’s recent activities.
ISKCON has been accused of operating as an extremist group, disrupting law and order, and forcefully taking control of Hindu temples. However, the organization denies these allegations.
India Expresses Concern
The Indian government has voiced concern over violence against Bangladesh’s minority Hindus, who make up 8% of the population. Officials from the Ministry of External Affairs are set to brief Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee on the matter.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor described the situation as “serious and disturbing,” emphasizing India’s interest in its neighbor’s welfare. He highlighted that over 200 attacks against minorities have occurred in 50 districts since the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government on August 5.
The issue remains a point of regional tension as authorities and communities call for justice and resolution.
