Bangladesh court denies bail to Iskcon priest Chinmoy Krishna Das

A Bangladesh court on Thursday rejected the bail plea of Iskcon priest Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari in a sedition case, as reported by the Daily Star. The Chattogram Metropolitan Sessions Judge Md Saiful Islam made the ruling after hearing arguments from both sides for approximately 30 minutes.

The legal team representing Chinmoy, led by advocate Apurba Kumar Bhattacharjee and comprising 11 lawyers, presented their defense but were unable to secure his release. Metropolitan Public Prosecutor Advocate Mofizur Haque Bhuiyan confirmed the decision, noting the seriousness of the charges brought against Chinmoy.

The case stems from allegations that Chinmoy disrespected the national flag of Bangladesh during a rally organized on October 25 at Laldighi Maidan in Chattogram. It is alleged that a saffron flag was raised above the national flag, prompting charges of sedition. Chinmoy, along with 18 others, was subsequently arrested on October 30.

Iskcon Vice President Radharaman Das expressed disappointment at the court’s decision, calling it “unfortunate.” He said, “We were hopeful that today’s hearing would grant him bail. Chinmoy Das is a Brahmachari monk who has been in custody for 42 days, and his health is deteriorating. The entire world was watching this case closely.”

Chinmoy Krishna Das has been an outspoken advocate for minority rights in Bangladesh, serving as the spokesperson for the Bangladesh Sammilita Sanatani Jagran Jote. He has pushed for reforms including a minority protection law, a tribunal to address cases of persecution, and the establishment of a Ministry of Minority Affairs. His rallies in Chittagong and Rangpur have gained significant attention and sparked socio-political discussions nationwide.

The arrest of Chinmoy has drawn widespread criticism from minority rights groups and international observers. Advocate Rabindra Ghosh, who has been vocal in his defense of Chinmoy, revealed concerns for his own safety, stating, “False cases could be filed against me, and I face threats to my life.” Ghosh was admitted to SSKM Hospital in Kolkata after complaining of chest pain, adding to the tension surrounding the case.

This high-profile case highlights the growing challenges faced by minority communities in Bangladesh, as well as the contentious intersection of religion and politics in the country. Chinmoy’s legal team plans to review the court’s decision and explore further options for his release.