Tue Nov 26 13:06:00 UTC 2024: ## Bangladesh Police Clash with Hindu Protesters After Priest’s Arrest

**Chattogram, Bangladesh** – Violent clashes erupted between police and hundreds of Hindu protesters outside a Chattogram court on Tuesday following the denial of bail to Chinmoy Krishna Das, a prominent Hindu priest and spokesperson for the Bangladesh Sanatan Jagaran Mancha (or Jote, according to different sources). One person is feared dead, though official confirmation is pending.

Das, also known as Chandan Kumar Dhar, was arrested Monday at Dhaka airport on sedition charges filed by a former Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader. The charges stem from a case involving 19 individuals. Following a court appearance Tuesday, where bail was denied, protesters attempted to block the prison van carrying Das, leading to a three-hour standoff. Police responded with tear gas, sound grenades, and baton charges to disperse the crowd.

The arrest has ignited widespread concern over minority rights in Bangladesh, particularly amidst recent political instability and a surge in violence against minorities since the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The current military-backed interim government has faced criticism for its handling of the situation.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed deep concern over Das’s arrest and denial of bail, highlighting the arrest as the latest in a series of attacks against Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. The MEA statement cited documented cases of arson, looting, vandalism, and desecration of religious sites, urging Bangladeshi authorities to ensure the safety and security of all minorities and investigate the perpetrators of these crimes. The MEA criticized the charges against Das, arguing that he was presenting legitimate demands through peaceful means. Hindus constitute approximately 8% of Bangladesh’s population. The situation remains tense, with concerns growing over the safety and security of religious minorities in the country.

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