Priyanka Gandhi Condemns ISKCON Priest’s Arrest in Bangladesh, Calls for Central Government Action

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has expressed deep concern over the arrest of ISKCON priest Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari in Bangladesh, calling it “extremely worrying.” She urged the BJP-led central government to take strong action to ensure the safety of minority communities in the neighboring country.

In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Gandhi said:
“The news of the arrest of the priest of ISKCON Temple in Bangladesh and the continuing violence against minority Hindus are extremely worrying. I appeal to the Central Government to intervene in this matter and strongly raise the issue of ensuring the safety of minorities before the Bangladesh Government.”

The Arrest and Allegations
Chinmoy Krishna Das was detained on Monday and appeared before a Chittagong court on Tuesday, where he was remanded to police custody. The priest faces sedition charges for allegedly raising a flag on a stand bearing Bangladesh’s national flag.

Reactions and Condemnation
The Bangladesh Hindu Bouddha Christian Unity Council (BHBCUC), the country’s largest minority organization, expressed outrage over the arrest.
“We strongly condemn the arrest of Prabhu Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, spokesperson of Sammilita Sanatani Jagran Jote,” said Manindra Kumar Nath, Acting General Secretary of the BHBCUC.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also condemned the arrest and raised concerns over attacks on minorities protesting peacefully against it.
“It is unfortunate that while the perpetrators of these incidents remain at large, charges are being pressed against a religious leader presenting legitimate demands through peaceful gatherings,” said the MEA in a statement.

Union Minister Giriraj Singh criticized the Bangladesh government, accusing it of succumbing to radical pressures.
“The Bangladesh government is working under the pressure of radicals who are vandalizing temples. I thank the Indian government for taking this matter seriously. The United Nations should also take cognizance of the situation,” he told.

This incident has further highlighted the challenges faced by minority communities in Bangladesh and sparked calls for international intervention.