Chinmoy Krishna Das, a leader of the (ISKCON) Arrested in Chittagong, Bangladesh
Chandan Kumar Dhar, also known as Chinmoy Krishna Das, a leader of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in Chittagong, Bangladesh, is facing sedition charges following an incident during a rally on October 25, 2024. The rally, organized by the Hindu community under the banner “Sanatan Jagaran Mancha,” reportedly involved a saffron-colored ISKCON flag being placed above Bangladesh’s national flag on a pillar in Chattogram’s New Market area. This act has sparked accusations of flag desecration, which led to the charges against Chinmoy and 18 others. Two individuals involved in the protest have been arrested, while the others face charges of sedition and conspiracy.
Chinmoy has defended the incident, claiming the saffron flag was mistakenly placed above a flag that resembled Bangladesh’s national flag, and emphasized that he had no intention to disrespect the national symbol. This incident has drawn attention amid growing concerns over religious tensions and the treatment of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh. The controversy highlights the broader issues of religious freedom and minority rights in the country, with international bodies calling for fair treatment and an independent investigation
The arrest of ISKCON leader Chinmoy Das in Bangladesh has become a significant issue amid rising religious tensions. On October 25, 2024, during a rally organized by Hindu groups, a saffron flag, which is associated with the ISKCON organization, was flown above Bangladesh’s national flag. This incident triggered accusations of disrespect towards the national symbol, leading to sedition charges against Chinmoy Das and 18 other Hindu leaders involved in the rally. Authorities have argued that the placement of the ISKCON flag above the national flag was a serious act of insult.
Chinmoy Das defended the situation by explaining that the flag flown was not Bangladesh’s national flag, but a flag resembling it, and the incident was a mistake rather than an intentional act of desecration. He has denied any ill intent, asserting that those responsible for the error should be held accountable, but he claims he had no personal involvement in the desecration.
This incident has further highlighted the concerns over religious freedom in Bangladesh, especially for its Hindu minority. There have been increasing reports of violence and discrimination against Hindus in the country. Just days before the flag incident, a Hindu student was reportedly attacked and arrested under contentious circumstances, further intensifying concerns among the Hindu community.
Moreover, the case has drawn the attention of international human rights organizations, with many calling for a fair investigation and treatment of minority communities. The tension in Bangladesh between its religious groups is ongoing, and this arrest has added fuel to the debate about the safety and rights of Hindus in the region
