Urgent Appeal: Immediate Release and Protection of ISKCON Leader Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari

We express grave concern regarding the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, an esteemed ISKCON leader and prominent advocate for the Hindu community, by the Detective Branch of Bangladesh Police on November 25, 2024, at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka. This arrest raises serious concerns about freedom of speech, religious harmony, and the protection of minority communities in Bangladesh.

Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari has long been a vocal advocate for the rights of the Sanatana Dharma community, addressing issues such as attacks on temples and monasteries. His recent participation in rallies, including the October 25 event in Chattogram, highlighted critical issues faced by the Hindu community. Accusations of provocation and sedition leveled against him are deeply troubling and appear to be a targeted response to his legitimate demands for justice and equality.

We call upon:

1. The Government of Bangladesh to ensure the safety and fair treatment of Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari and other individuals named in this case, in accordance with national and international human rights laws.
2. International Human Rights Organizations to urgently intervene and monitor this situation to prevent any violations of fundamental rights.
3. Media and Civil Society to highlight the concerns surrounding this arrest and advocate for transparency and accountability in the legal proceedings.
4. Global Hindu Organizations to stand united in defense of religious leaders and communities facing persecution.
   
   

The allegations, including those under the Sedition Act, should be impartially reviewed to ensure that they are not being misused to suppress dissent or peaceful activism. We reiterate that religious flags, protests, or public gatherings should not be criminalized if conducted within the legal framework.

We demand an immediate and impartial investigation into these allegations and the release of Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari if no credible evidence of wrongdoing is found. Furthermore, we urge the government to address the broader concerns of communal harmony and protection of minority rights in Bangladesh.

This arrest not only undermines democratic principles but also sets a dangerous precedent for the suppression of religious leaders and minority voices. We stand in solidarity with the Hindu community in Bangladesh and reaffirm our commitment to advocating for justice, equality, and freedom for all.

Issued by:
Global Human Rights Defence
Sradhanand Sital
Chairman GHRD
The Hague, the Netherlands