Bangladesh Assures Safety Of Hindus, Denies ISKCON Ban Plans

Bangladesh’s Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus’ press secretary, Shafikul Islam, said on Friday that Hindus in Bangladesh were “safe” and had nothing to do with the possible ban of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). He dismissed India’s statement on the issue, saying it was an “internal matter.

Speaking to CNN-News18, Islam said, “Hindus are safe in Bangladesh. An ⁠industrial level disinformation campaign is going on. I request you to come and cover on ground… Bangladesh witnessed violence in the initial few days and the situation is now under control.”

This comes after the arrest of Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das, and denial of his bail plea. While assuring Muslims, Islam said Das would be fairly tried.

“We will ensure that Das gets a fair trial,” he said. The High Court in Bangladesh recently dismissed an application seeking a ban on ISKCON after authorities addressed concerns raised in a petition accusing ISKCON of “radical activities” threatening national security, as per the Dhaka Tribune. Islam confirmed, “I don’t know about the case trial but ISKCON will not be banned in Bangladesh.”

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Admitting that there were tensions in Chattogram, Islam said, “The chief adviser visited temples and spoke to Hindu leaders.” Responding to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s campaign remarks about minorities in Bangladesh, Islam attributed his concerns to diaspora groups and expressed confidence Trump would obtain a clearer picture from the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka after taking office.

On India’s statement condemning the arrest of Das and incidents of violence against minorities, Islam said, “The Indian government should not have issued a statement. It is our internal matter. We never comment on what happens in India.”

The Ministry of External Affairs of India issued a statement expressing “deep concern” over the arrest and denial of bail to Das, citing documented incidents of violence against minorities, and appealed to Bangladesh to ensure the safety and rights of minorities.