NEW DELHI: A Muslim lawyer defending ISKCON monk Chinmoy Krishna Das was killed during protests outside a Chattogram court on Tuesday. The violence erupted as thousands of supporters of the monk, chanting “Jai Shri Ram,” clashed with security forces. Deputy Commissioner of City Police Liaquat Ali confirmed the lawyer’s death, adding to the mounting tensions surrounding the monk’s arrest.
The clashes began after the court denied bail to Das, who was arrested on charges including sedition. Security forces resorted to baton charges and sound grenades to disperse around 2,000 protestors blocking the prison van transporting Das. Demonstrations spread across several districts, including Dhaka, Khulna, Cumilla, Dinajpur, and Cox’s Bazar.
“They went on a rampage, throwing bricks at us. To disperse the crowd, we had to fire tear gas. No one was seriously injured, but one of our constables was hurt,” said Chittagong Metropolitan Police Commissioner Hasib Aziz.
READ ALSO: Chinmoy Krishna Das denied bail in Bangladesh, sent to judicial custody
Chinmoy Krishna Das, a prominent ISKCON monk, was detained at Dhaka airport on Monday. Authorities have accused him of sedition, citing alleged statements and actions that they claim incited unrest. His arrest sparked immediate protests among Hindu minorities.
The monk, considered a key leader for the Hindu minority in Bangladesh, has been a vocal advocate for minority rights. His supporters argue that his arrest is part of a broader crackdown on Hindus in the country.
The Indian government has expressed concerns about the safety of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. Diplomatic exchanges between Delhi and Dhaka have grown increasingly strained, with India urging Bangladesh to ensure the protection of all communities.
READ ALSO: Arrest of Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das in Bangladesh sparks outrage
The violence and the tragic death of the lawyer have drawn international attention to the plight of religious minorities in Bangladesh. While authorities continue to maintain law and order, critics argue that the government must address underlying grievances to prevent further unrest.
The case of ISKCON Monk Chinmoy Krishna Das has become a flashpoint for tensions, highlighting the delicate balance between law enforcement and minority rights in Bangladesh.