Tensions between India and Bangladesh escalated on Tuesday over the safety of minorities, particularly Hindus, with India criticizing the arrest of ISKCON priest Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, while the Bangladeshi government defended its actions. India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed “deep concern” over the arrest, highlighting that those responsible for violence against Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh remained free, while charges were being levied against the religious leader for peacefully advocating legitimate demands.
In response, Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, rejected India’s remarks, calling the issue an “internal affair” and stating that such comments misrepresented the facts. The government insisted that the judiciary in Bangladesh was independent and would not be influenced by external pressures.
The Indian government has previously raised concerns with Dhaka regarding the safety of minority communities, urging authorities to protect the rights of Hindus and other minorities, including their right to peaceful assembly and expression. In its statement, India emphasized the ongoing attacks on minorities, including arson, theft, and vandalism targeting homes, businesses, and religious sites.
In a retaliatory statement, Bangladesh said it was “deeply hurt” by India’s accusations and reiterated that the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das was based on specific charges. Bangladesh officials maintained that reports of violence against minorities had been exaggerated. Despite India’s concerns, Dhaka has denied any systematic violence against minorities and assured that its legal system would handle the matter independently.
The Indian government further raised alarm over the recent attacks on minorities who were peacefully protesting the arrest, urging Bangladesh to ensure their safety and uphold their rights to peaceful assembly.
