Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, spokesperson for the Bangladesh Sammilit Sanatani Jagran Jote and a former ISKCON leader, is set to have his bail hearing in the High Court today in a sedition case alleging he insulted the national flag of Bangladesh.
Chinmoy Krishna Das was arrested on November 25, 2024, at Dhaka airport. His bail application was initially rejected by a lower court in Chittagong on January 2, 2025, prompting his legal team to move the High Court on January 12.
“We have applied to the High Court for Chinmoy’s bail, and we will mention the case for hearing on Monday (today),” said Apurba Kumar Bhattacharjee, Chinmoy’s lawyer, speaking to ANI.
During the January 2 hearing in Chittagong, Metropolitan Sessions Judge Md Saiful Islam denied bail after hearing arguments from both parties. Advocate Bhattacharjee argued that Chinmoy Krishna Das has always expressed profound respect for the nation, saying, “He begins every speech by stating, ‘Mother and motherland are better than heaven.’”
Bhattacharjee contended that the flag allegedly desecrated was not the flag of Bangladesh and that a sedition charge requires court approval, which was not obtained. He further emphasized, “Chinmoy respects his motherland like his own mother and is not a traitor.”
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India expressed deep concern over Chinmoy’s arrest and the denial of his bail, highlighting a troubling pattern of violence and discrimination against minorities in Bangladesh.
“This incident follows multiple attacks on Hindus and other minorities by extremist elements in Bangladesh,” the MEA stated. “There are documented cases of arson, looting, vandalism, and desecration of temples and deities. It is unfortunate that while the perpetrators of these incidents remain at large, charges have been pressed against a religious leader who presented legitimate demands through peaceful gatherings.”
The MEA also urged Bangladeshi authorities to ensure the safety and security of minorities, including their right to peaceful assembly and expression.
Chinmoy Krishna Das’s case has drawn widespread attention amidst a broader conversation about the treatment of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. Rights groups and political figures have criticized the Bangladeshi government for failing to act against extremist elements responsible for attacks on minorities.
Protests have erupted in Bangladesh in response to Chinmoy’s arrest, with some demonstrations by Hindu groups being met with violence. Critics argue that this case highlights the systemic challenges faced by religious minorities in the country.
The bail hearing today will be closely watched by human rights organizations and minority communities. Chinmoy Krishna Das’s case has become a litmus test for Bangladesh’s commitment to justice, minority rights, and the rule of law.
