Another Hindu priest's Arrest Sparks Outrage in Bangladesh and India

Another Hindu priest, Sri Shyam Das Prabhu, has been arrested in Bangladesh, sparking protests in both Bangladesh and India. This follows the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das on sedition charges, intensifying concerns about minority safety and religious intolerance. Indian authorities and groups like RSS demand immediate action.

The arrest of another Hindu priest, Sri Shyam Das Prabhu, in Chattogram, Bangladesh, has intensified tensions within the Hindu community. Radharamn Das, Vice President of ISKCON Kolkata, announced the news on social media, expressing deep concern over what he called "unjustified detentions."

This arrest follows the controversial detention of former ISKCON member Chinmoy Krishna Das, who remains in custody on sedition charges. Widespread protests have erupted across Bangladesh and India, with demonstrators calling for the immediate release of both individuals. The hashtag #FreeISKCONMonks has gained traction, highlighting fears of rising intolerance against minorities.

India’s government has expressed "deep concern" over the developments, urging Bangladesh to ensure the safety of its Hindu minority, which constitutes approximately 8% of the population. The situation has drawn criticism from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which condemned the alleged human rights violations. The group labeled the detentions as "unfair" and called on both nations to act swiftly.

The Bangladeshi government, however, remains firm, asserting that the arrests were lawful and promising a fair trial. Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus reassured the international community that the country’s minority groups are protected, despite recent unrest.

Tensions have been escalating since the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government, which many blame for failing to prevent attacks on minority communities. Over 200 incidents targeting Hindus have been reported since August, adding to the community's growing insecurity.

Also Read: Bangladesh Freezes Bank Accounts of Ex-ISKCON Priest Chinmoy Das, 16 Others Amid Sedition Probe

Observers warn that without immediate intervention, these arrests could further strain Indo-Bangladeshi relations and escalate communal discord.