The arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das in Bangladesh underscores the persistent challenges faced by its religious minorities

The recent arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, a prominent Hindu monk and spokesperson for the Bangladesh Sammilit Sanatan Jagran Jote, has spotlighted the precarious situation of religious minorities in Bangladesh. Das, known for his advocacy on behalf of Hindu communities, was apprehended on sedition charges after a religious flag was reportedly hoisted above the Bangladeshi national flag during a rally in Chittagong. This incident has sparked heated debates, both domestically and internationally, about the treatment of minorities in Bangladesh and its implications for regional stability.

Chinmoy Krishna Das, a senior figure within ISKCON and leader of the ‘Sanatan Jagaran Mancha,’ has been vocal about the rights of Hindus in Bangladesh. His arrest follows an incident on October 25, when the ISKCON flag was placed above the Bangladeshi national flag at a protest. The act, perceived by authorities as a threat to national sovereignty, led to sedition charges under Bangladeshi law. While the government views the flag incident as an affront to national integrity, critics argue that the charges are politically motivated, aiming to suppress minority voices. Das and the ‘Sanatan Jagaran Mancha’ have articulated an eight-point agenda, emphasising structural reforms to protect minorities in Bangladesh. They are demanding a  dedicated ministry for minority affairs and establishment of a tribunal to expedite justice for crimes against minorities and other safeguards for preserving their identity.

Their  demands reflect a long-standing plea for systemic changes to safeguard minority communities, which constitute approximately 10 per cent of Bangladesh’s population.The arrest has triggered widespread criticism. Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina condemned the government’s action, calling for the monk’s immediate release and emphasising the importance of religious freedom. The incident also drew attention to recent waves of violence against minorities, including the burning of a Hindu temple in Chittagong and attacks on other religious groups. This episode has exposed the interim government’s struggle to maintain law and order, with opposition leaders accusing it of targeting minorities to divert attention from economic mismanagement and political instability. While New Delhi often raises concerns about the safety of Hindus in Bangladesh, it must tread cautiously to avoid exacerbating tensions. India’s position must be consistent. While advocating for minority rights abroad, India must also reflect on its domestic challenges. Rising incidents of communal violence and rhetoric against minorities in India undermine its credibility on the global stage. By ensuring that its own minorities feel secure and respected, India can lead by example and strengthen its moral authority when engaging with Bangladesh. For Bangladesh, the way forward lies in embracing its pluralistic heritage and ensuring that all its citizens, regardless of faith, feel safe and valued. Only then can it achieve sustainable stability and international respect it deserves.