'Ensure safety of minorities,' India tells Bangladesh after arrest of Hindu priest Chinmoy Krishna Das

NEW DELHI: The external affairs ministry voiced serious concerns on Tuesday over the arrest of Hindu community leader Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari in Bangladesh.
"We have noted with deep concern the arrest and denial of bail to Shri Chinmoy Krishna Das, who is also the spokesperson of the Bangladesh Sammilit Sanatan Jagran Jote. This incident follows the multiple attacks on Hindus and other minorities by extremist elements in Bangladesh. There are several documented cases of arson and looting of minorities' homes and business establishments, as well as theft and vandalism and desecration of deities and temples," the MEA said in a statement.
"It is unfortunate that while the perpetrators of these incidents remain at large, charges should be pressed against a religious leader presenting legitimate demands through peaceful gatherings," it added.
The ministry also highlighted concerns regarding attacks on Hindus who were protesting the religious leader's arrest.
"We urge Bangladesh authorities to ensure the safety and security of Hindus and all minorities, including their right of freedom of peaceful assembly and expression," the statement said.
On Tuesday, a Bangladesh court rejected the bail application of Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, a leader of Hindu organisation Sammilita Sanatani Jote, ordering his imprisonment.
Bangladesh authorities arrested Das on Monday near the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka.
Police Detective Branch spokesperson Rezaul Karim confirmed Das's detention following a request from regular police, though specific charges were not disclosed.
According to Bdnews24 news portal, Sanatani Jagran Jote's principal organiser, Gaurang Das Brahmachari, reported that Das had planned to travel from Dhaka to Chattogram by air.
Previously, on October 30, authorities filed charges against 19 individuals, including Das, at Chattogram's Kotwali Police Station, alleging disrespect towards Bangladesh's national flag during a Hindu community rally in Chattogram's New Market area.