Chinmoy Krishna Das, a former ISKCON priest arrested on November 25, 2024, in Bangladesh, has been denied bail by a local court. The decision came despite an 11-member legal team led by advocate Apurba Kumar Bhattacharjee defending him against sedition charges related to alleged disrespect of Bangladesh’s national flag. Das now plans to appeal to the High Court, according to sources.
ISKCON Kolkata Vice-President Radha Raman Das expressed disappointment, stating, “The entire world was hopeful for his freedom in the new year. The Bangladesh government must ensure justice is served.” ISKCON Kolkata has been holding prayers for religious minorities in Bangladesh and hopes for justice in the ongoing legal proceedings.
Das was initially arrested at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka and has been in custody since. Allegations of violence against the minority Hindu community in Bangladesh have further highlighted the situation, with many calling for action to protect minority rights. The High Court appeal is expected to be filed soon.
