Tension appears to be rising between India and Bangladesh over the arrest of Bangladeshi Hindu priest and former ISKCON chief Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari. On Monday, Chinmay Das was arrested at Dhaka airport on charges of treason. Tension has increased in Bangladesh since his arrest. India also opposed Das’ arrest and demanded Bangladesh ensure the safety of all minorities, including Hindus. Bangladesh opposed this Indian reaction and now the interim government’s information and broadcasting advisor Nahid Islam has also termed India’s reaction as “unwarranted interference”.
Naheed Islam was the leading face of the student movement in Bangladesh that overthrew Sheikh Hasina’s government. After the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government, an interim government was formed under the leadership of Professor Mohammad Yunus in which Naheed also remained as an advisor.
Regarding the arrest of Chinmay Das, Nahid said, ‘We believe that such statements are inappropriate interference. It seems as if India wants to make the situation even worse. India should pay attention to the rights and safety of its minority community.
He further said, “We urge India to act responsibly and not pay heed to the false propaganda of the Awami League.”
What did India say that Bangladesh is enraged?
The day after Chinmay Das’ arrest, India issued a statement expressing concern over his arrest.
“It is unfortunate that sedition charges are being brought against a Hindu priest who raised legitimate demands through peaceful gatherings, rather than criminals attacking Hindu minorities,” the statement said. We also expressed concern over the attacks on Hindu minorities who were peacefully protesting against the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das. We urge the Bangladesh authorities to ensure the safety of Hindus and all minorities.
Following this statement from India, Bangladesh retaliated by issuing a statement on Tuesday night. In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh, it was said that the arrest of Chinmay Das has been given a wrong meaning in some circles.
The statement read: ‘Chinmoy Krishna Das has been arrested on different charges. The Government of Bangladesh believes that such unfounded statements not only misrepresent the facts but are also contrary to the spirit of friendship and mutual understanding between the two neighboring countries.
