“Bangladesh Must Change Their Radical Mindset," Says MLA Kamalakhya Dey Purkayastha at Shribhumi Protest

Thousands marched through the streets of Shribhumi on Friday to protest the arrest of Swami Chinmay Krishna Das in Bangladesh. The protest, led by MLA Kamalakhya Dey Purkayastha, began at the city’s Petrol Pump Point and saw participants condemning the Bangladesh government’s actions and calling for the immediate release of the former ISKCON member.

Demonstrators carried placards demanding justice for Swami Das and raised slogans criticising the interim Bangladeshi government. Many labelled the interim head of government, Md. Yunus, as a “Jehadi” and accused the administration of disrespecting Hindu faith and figures. The crowd also condemned the alleged desecration of temples in Bangladesh and demanded better security for Hindus living there.

MLA Purkayastha, addressing the protestors, criticised Bangladesh’s handling of the case and called Swami Das’s detention an insult to the Hindu community. “The government of Bangladesh must immediately release Swami Chinmay Krishna Das and ensure the safety of all Hindus in the country. Their radical mindset must change,” he stated.

Tensions escalated during the demonstration as protestors attempted to breach barricades set up by the police. CRPF personnel were seen managing the situation, which remained peaceful overall despite the emotional nature of the gathering.

Swami Chinmay Krishna Das was arrested in Bangladesh on charges of sedition, allegedly for raising a flag on a stand displaying the country’s national flag. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with supporters accusing the government of targeting religious figures unjustly.

ISKCON Dhaka clarified that Swami Das is no longer affiliated with the organisation, having been separated from it earlier. They stated his actions do not reflect ISKCON’s views. However, ISKCON later expressed solidarity with its former member, raising concerns about growing challenges for religious minorities in Bangladesh.

The Bangladeshi government recently sought to ban ISKCON, following Swami Chinmay Krishna Das’s arrest, but the High Court rejected the plea. Reports indicate that tensions continue to rise as public outcry intensifies over Swami Chinmay Krishna Das’s arrest, not just in Bangladesh but also in India.