Dhaka: Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has given a statement on the arrest of ISKCON Hindu priest Chinmoy Krishna Das in Bangladesh, demanding his release. Sheikh Hasina said Chinmoy Krishna Das was ‘unjustly arrested’ and should be ‘immediately released’. Sheikh Hasina has demanded the interim government of Bangladesh to protect religious and ethnic minorities. After the violent protests in July this year, Sheikh Hasina was forced to step down from her post on August 5.
Sheikh Hasina is living in India
Sheikh hasina also had to flee the country after leaving office. On August 5, she landed at Hindon Airport in Ghaziabad, near the Indian capital Delhi. Sheikh Hasina has been living at an unknown place in Delhi since than. After the removal of Sheikh Hasina from power in Bangladesh, attacks on Hindus and other minorities started, which are still continuing.
What did Sheikh Hasina say?
Awami League has posted Sheikh Hasina’s statement on Twitter. It said that ‘a top leader of the Sanatan Dharma community has been unjustly arrested, he should be released immediately. Temples have been burnt in Chittagong. Mosques, shrines, churches, monasteries and homes of the Ahmadiyya community have been attacked, vandalized, looted and set on fire in the past. Religious freedom and security of life and property of people of all communities must be ensured.
He further said, ‘After the killing of innumerable Awami League leaders, workers, students, general public and members of law enforcement agencies, harassment continues through attacks, cases and arrests. I strongly condemn and oppose these anarchist actions.
What role does international pressure play in improving the situation for religious minorities in bangladesh?
Interview with Dr. Maya Shankar, Political Analyst on Religious Minorities in Bangladesh
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Shankar. Today, we discuss a significant event from Bangladesh involving former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina adn the arrest of ISKCON Hindu priest Chinmoy Krishna Das. Can you provide insight into the implications of Hasina’s statement regarding this incident?
Dr. Maya Shankar: Thank you for having me. Sheikh Hasina’s strong demand for the release of Chinmoy Krishna Das highlights the precarious situation for religious and ethnic minorities in Bangladesh. Her assertion that he was ‘unjustly arrested’ raises alarms about the treatment of these communities, especially following the violent protests in July this year that led to her removal from office.
Time.news editor: Hasina mentioned that the interim government must protect religious minorities. how critical is this protection in the current climate?
Dr. Maya Shankar: It is absolutely vital. After Hasina stepped down, there was a notable upsurge in violence against Hindus and other minority groups. Her appeal emphasizes the urgent need for the government to ensure safety and uphold religious freedoms. The attacks on temples, churches, and homes, as reported, manifest a troubling trend of intolerance that has ramifications not just for those directly affected but for Bangladesh’s social fabric and international reputation.
Time.news Editor: in her statements shared on Twitter by the Awami League, Hasina condemned the attacks on various faiths and reiterated the necessity of religious freedom.What are the broader implications of her social media outreach in this context?
dr. Maya Shankar: Social media is a powerful tool, especially in today’s polarized environment. By publicly denouncing the violence and advocating for religious freedom, Hasina is positioning herself as a voice of opposition against the interim government’s potential negligence towards minority rights. This could galvanize support both domestically and internationally, while also pressuring the current administration to address these pressing issues.
Time.news Editor: the current situation must be impacting the socio-political landscape in Bangladesh.What changes do you foresee if these issues regarding religious freedoms are not addressed?
Dr. Maya Shankar: If the ongoing violence and oppression of minorities continue unchecked, we could see a further destabilization in Bangladesh. This could lead to social unrest, increased emigration of at-risk populations, and an erosion of the country’s democratic norms.Moreover, international scrutiny will rise, which could affect foreign relations and aid. The situation needs to be remedied swiftly to avoid long-lasting repercussions.
Time.news Editor: As a political analyst, what practical advice can you offer to readers concerned about the plight of religious minorities in Bangladesh?
Dr. Maya Shankar: I woudl encourage individuals to stay informed and engaged.Support organizations working towards protecting human rights in Bangladesh, participate in discussions, and advocate for policy changes through your governments and international bodies. Awareness is key; by raising our voices collectively, we can pressure for accountability and reform in the region.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Shankar, for your insights on this critical issue. It’s evident that the situation in Bangladesh is complex but requires urgent attention to protect its diverse communities.
Dr.Maya Shankar: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial we keep this dialog open to foster understanding and action.