Amidst rising tensions and concerns over the treatment of religious minorities in Bangladesh, the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) has issued a global call to prayer. On December 1st, devotees worldwide were urged to gather at their nearest ISKCON temple to offer prayers for peace and the protection of those facing persecution.
The call for prayer follows a series of unsettling events in Bangladesh. ISKCON Kolkata alleges that Bangladeshi authorities have arrested three individuals: Adipurush Shyam Das, Ranganath Das Brahmachari (both monks), and the secretary of Chinmoy Krishna Das. According to Radha Raman, Vice President of ISKCON Kolkata, the monks were apprehended on Friday while returning home after visiting Chinmoy Krishna Das, who was arrested on November 25th on sedition charges. The charges stem from an incident on October 25th where Das allegedly hoisted a saffron flag above the Bangladeshi national flag in Chittagong.
Adding to the gravity of the situation, Radha Raman also reported the vandalism of an ISKCON center in Bangladesh. This incident, along with the arrests, paints a picture of escalating religious intolerance and violence against minorities. Raman’s heartfelt plea underscores the growing sense of helplessness and fear within the community, urging ISKCON followers and devotees globally to pray for the safety and well-being of minorities in Bangladesh.
The situation has significantly deteriorated since the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das. On November 27th, a lawyer was tragically killed during clashes between police and alleged followers of the spiritual guru in the Chattogram Court Building area. This tragic event further highlights the volatile atmosphere and the urgent need for de-escalation.
India, a close neighbor, has formally voiced its deep concern over the escalating situation. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed serious worry about the rise in extremist rhetoric, increasing violence, and provocative incidents in Bangladesh. In a weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India has repeatedly raised the issue of targeted attacks on Hindus and other minorities with the Bangladeshi government, emphasizing the need for the interim government to fulfill its responsibility to protect all its citizens, regardless of religious affiliation. Jaiswal dismissed claims that these events are merely media exaggerations, underscoring the seriousness of the situation and the need for immediate action.
The international community is watching closely as the situation in Bangladesh continues to unfold. ISKCON’s call for prayer serves as a powerful symbol of solidarity and a plea for peace and protection for the vulnerable minorities in the region. The events highlight the urgent need for dialogue, de-escalation, and a commitment to ensuring religious freedom and the safety of all citizens.
