Dhaka: Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has strongly condemned the recent arrest of Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das, calling it “unjust” and demanding his immediate release. In a statement issued on Thursday, Hasina criticized the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus for its handling of the situation and urged the protection of religious and ethnic minorities in Bangladesh.
Chinmoy Krishna Das was detained on charges of sedition after allegedly hoisting a saffron flag above the national flag during a rally in October. His arrest has sparked widespread protests and international outcry, with many accusing the government of targeting minority communities.
Hasina, who was ousted from power in August following widespread violence and protests, emphasized the need for religious freedom and the protection of all communities. “A top leader of the Sanatan Dharma community has been unjustly arrested. He must be released immediately,” she stated. “Religious freedom and the security of life and property for people of all communities must be ensured.”
The former prime minister also condemned the recent violence in Chittagong, where a lawyer was killed during protests against Das’s arrest. She called for those responsible to be brought to justice and warned the interim government of the consequences of failing to protect human rights.
The arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das has intensified the already volatile political climate in Bangladesh, with many fearing further unrest. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, urging the Bangladeshi government to uphold democratic principles and human rights.
