India has voiced strong concern over the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, spokesperson for the Bangladesh Sammilit Sanatan Jagran Jote, and the denial of his bail.
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, said the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in statement on its website on Tuesday.
“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 statement reads.
Terming the incident unfortunate, the MEA of India in the statement said that while the perpetrators of these incidents remain at large, charges should be pressed against a religious leader presenting legitimate demands through peaceful gatherings.
The MEA also expressed concern claiming, “We also note with concern the attacks on minorities protesting peacefully against the arrest of Shri Das”.
India urged Bangladesh to ensure safety of Hindus and all minorities.
“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 MEA statement reads.
Meanwhilem, the Indian Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in West Bengal has demanded the release of Chimoy Krishna Das. Otherwise, the party will impose a blockade on the India-Bangladesh border and hold protest in front of the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission in Kolkata.
