ISKCON devotees in Kolkata hold prayers for safety of Hindus in Bangladesh

ISKCON devotees in Kolkata pray for the safety of Hindus in Bangladesh amid escalating religious violence
Bangladesh’s Hindu minority faces widespread attacks across 50 districts since the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government
ISKCON demands action against extremists in Bangladesh and the release of jailed Hindu leaders, including Chinmoy Krishna Das

On Tuesday, ISKCON devotees in Kolkata gathered at the Albert Road center to pray for the safety of Hindus in Bangladesh, where attacks on religious minorities have surged since the fall of the Awami League government on August 5. Hundreds of followers participated, chanting "Hare Krishna" and singing devotional songs, while holding placards demanding the protection of Hindus in the neighboring country. The event was led by ISKCON Kolkata spokesperson Radharamn Das.

Since the political shift in Bangladesh, Hindu minorities, who make up about 8% of the country's 170 million population, have faced increasing violence. According to reports, over 50 districts in Bangladesh have seen attacks on Hindu communities, including the destruction of temples, businesses, and homes. These incidents have been attributed to rising religious intolerance and extremism, which intensified following the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government. The attacks have caused widespread fear and uncertainty among the Hindu population, many of whom have sought refuge.

ISKCON representatives have demanded that the interim government in Bangladesh take immediate action against the fundamentalist groups responsible for the violence. They have called for the arrest of individuals fomenting trouble and for measures to restore safety and security for religious minorities. Furthermore, ISKCON has requested the release of Chinmoy Krishna Das, a prominent Hindu spiritual leader, and other monks who were arrested during the unrest. Das is scheduled to be produced before a Bangladesh court on January 2.

The ISKCON community has continued to raise awareness about the situation, organizing prayers, protests, and public demonstrations to highlight the ongoing violence against Hindus. Their efforts reflect the broader concerns about the safety of religious minorities in Bangladesh and the need for decisive actions to prevent further violence and ensure the protection of vulnerable communities.

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