[🇧🇩] ISKCON and its activities in Bangladesh

[Saif]

Indian media reports over slain lawyer were false: CA press wing

CA Press Wing Facts called false some Indian media reports over slain Chattogram lawyer Saiful Islam Alif claiming that he was representing Chinmoy Krishna Das...

www.newagebd.net

Indian media reports over slain lawyer were false: CA press wing
Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha . Dhaka 27 November, 2024, 19:59

CA Press Wing Facts called false some Indian media reports over slain Chattogram lawyer Saiful Islam Alif claiming that he was representing Chinmoy Krishna Das.

In a Facebook post early Wednesday, it said some Indian media are claiming that lawyer Saiful Islam Alif, who was brutally murdered in Chattogram, was representing Chinmoy Krishna Das but the claim was false and was being spread with malafide intention.

‘The vakalatnama produced by Chinmoy Krishna Das to the Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Court has shown that advocate Subasish Sharma is his lawyer. We request everyone to refrain from any provocative, false report,’ the post read.​

 

[Saif]

Unwarranted Indian interference

THIS is quite disconcerting that the Bharatiya Janata Party’s Hindu nationalist government of India has expressed ‘concern’ about the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, spokesperson of Sanatan Jagaran Mancha and a ‘former’ leader of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, or ISKCON, on...

www.newagebd.net

Unwarranted Indian interference
28 November, 2024, 00:00

THIS is quite disconcerting that the Bharatiya Janata Party’s Hindu nationalist government of India has expressed ‘concern’ about the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, spokesperson of Sanatan Jagaran Mancha and a ‘former’ leader of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, or ISKCON, on specific charges of sedition. Moreover, the chief of the West Bengal BJP, Suvendu Adhikari, reportedly threatened Bangladesh the same day that the party would ‘block the Bangladesh-India border, if Chinmoy Das is not released.’ These are unwarranted interferences by Indian authorities with the internal affairs of Bangladesh and, that too, as the government of Bangladesh has already pointed out that day, on fabricated allegations, mostly propagated by a section of the communally oriented Indian media.

While ISKCON was banned in some countries on charges of terrorism, the Chinmoy-led Sanatan Jagaran Mancha has recently created troubles in society, in the name of upholding the interests of the minority community, palpably to destabilise the nascent government of Dr Muhammad Yunus, installed after the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s autocratic government in the face of a students-led popular mass uprising. That Chinmoy’s religious preaching has hardly anything to do with the welfare of the Hindu community of Bangladesh was amply proved when he kept completely silent over various kinds of repression of the Hindu community by Hasina’s autocratic regime over the past 15 years. To give a couple of examples, Chinmoy kept silent over the much-talked-about brutal murder of a politically innocent Hindu young man, Biswajit Das, by the Awami League goons in 2012, and the forcible ouster of chief justice SK Sinha by the League regime in 2017, because of the former’s refusal to entertain Hasina’s unlawful desires. Evidently, the interests of Chinmoy’s Sanatan Jagaran Mancha and those of the patriotic Sanatani Hindus in Bangladesh are not the same.

However, we at New Age are aware that some Hindu citizens were exposed to troubles, some were arrested as well, after the ouster of the League regime, but we are also aware that most of them faced the troubles and arrests not because of their religious identity but, rather, their political identity, Awami League that is — the party that oppressed and harassed thousands of its opponents for years and finally conducted a massacre of the democratically oriented protesters in July–August. Like the Muslim leaders and activists of the autocratic Awami League, their Hindu counterparts were exposed to public wrath while both the government and the people stood by the politically innocent Hindus against any possible attacks by the criminals.

Under such circumstances, when the non-party interim government of Yunus is busy stabilising the post-mass uprising instability, this Chinmoy, and his Santan Jagaran Mancha, appeared on the scene with his palpably ill-intentioned communal issues, posing a threat to the traditional religious harmony in the Bangladesh society, forcing the government to take legal steps against him. Why should the Indian government be unhappy about that? Does the Indian Hindu nationalist government of the Bharatiya Janata Party want the post-Hasina Bangladesh to be exposed to communal disharmony, pushing the Hindu minorities into trouble in the Muslim majority Bangladesh? While Indian interference in Bangladesh’s internal affairs is not welcome, the democratically oriented Bangladeshis must remain alert to any political design — local or foreign — of causing communal disharmony in the country.​

 

[Saif]

Protest for Chinmoy Krishna’s release: Three cases filed over attack on police

Three separate cases have been filed in connection with yesterday's attack on police during a clash at the court premises in Chattogram city while protesting for the release of former ISKCON leader Chinmoy Krishna Das. Kotwali police filed these cases, naming 76 individuals and including an a

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Protest for Chinmoy Krishna’s release: Three cases filed over attack on police
UNB
Published :
Nov 27, 2024 23:25
Updated :
Nov 27, 2024 23:25

Three separate cases have been filed in connection with yesterday's attack on police during a clash at the court premises in Chattogram city while protesting for the release of former ISKCON leader Chinmoy Krishna Das.

Kotwali police filed these cases, naming 76 individuals and including an additional 1,400 unidentified persons as defendants on Wednesday.

Kazi Md. Tarique Aziz, Chattogram Metropolitan Police's Additional Deputy Commissioner (Public Relations), confirmed these details this evening.

According to the police, a total of 27 people have been arrested in connection with the clash, including 20 individuals over attack on police and seven over lawyer Saiful Islam Alif's murder.

The incident occurred yesterday afternoon when a protest by activists demanding the release of Chinmoy Krishna Das clashed with police. During the altercation, 12 police personnel were injured, and a police vehicle was also vandalized.​

 

[Saif]

‘Ban ISKCON, arrest Advocate Alif’s killers in 24 hours’: Hasnat Abdullah

Hasnat Abdullah, the convener of the Anti-discrimination Student Movement, has demanded a ban on ISKCON as a “terrorist organization" and called for the immediate arrest — within 24 hours — of those responsible for the death of Advocate Saiful Islam Alif during yesterday’s c

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

‘Ban ISKCON, arrest Advocate Alif’s killers in 24 hours’: Hasnat Abdullah
UNB
Published :
Nov 27, 2024 20:15
Updated :
Nov 27, 2024 20:15

Hasnat Abdullah, the convener of the Anti-discrimination Student Movement, has demanded a ban on ISKCON as a “terrorist organization" and called for the immediate arrest — within 24 hours — of those responsible for the death of Advocate Saiful Islam Alif during yesterday’s clash in Chattogram City.

He made these remarks while speaking at the mourning rally organised after the funeral of Advocate Alif at the Tiger Pass intersection in the city on Wednesday.

Speaking on the occasion, Hasnat said, “We have not forgotten how ISKCON grew under the patronage of the Awami League over the last 16 years, and today, as a terrorist organisation, it is creating unrest in Bangladesh under India’s prescription by becoming an ally to fascism.”

“We want to say clearly, Indian bubu (sister)… Indian Hasina, you will no longer have a place in Bangladesh. No matter how many conspiracies are hatched in India, we, every person in Bangladesh, will defeat them,” he added.

He emphasised unity among people of all faiths and said extremist groups using religion for violence would not be tolerated, adding, “All religions will coexist in our country. We are united to protect everyone’s rights. But extremist organisations that operate in the name of religion will not be given any place in Bangladesh.”

Sarjis Alam, general secretary of the July Shaheed Smriti Foundation and member of the Nagorik Committee, said, “On the blood through which the new Bangladesh emerged and Sheikh Hasina fled.. these Chinmoys are inciting violence.”

“We want to tell everyone, just like we expelled Hasina from the country, expelling a terrorist group like ISKCON is like removing dirt from our hands,” said Sarjis.​

 

[Saif]

Petition for banning ISKCON, HC orders state report

A lawyer petitioned the High Court for banning the International Society for Krishna Consciousness or ISKCON in a sedition case, amid countrywide protests against the murder of a Chattogram advocate, and the HC ordered a state report on this matter. The sedition case has been filed aga

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Petition for banning ISKCON, HC orders state report
FE Desk
Published :
Nov 28, 2024 00:48
Updated :
Nov 28, 2024 00:48

A lawyer petitioned the High Court for banning the International Society for Krishna Consciousness or ISKCON in a sedition case, amid countrywide protests against the murder of a Chattogram advocate, and the HC ordered a state report on this matter.

The sedition case has been filed against expelled ISKCON leader Chinmoy Krishna Das, also a spokesperson for the Sammilita Sanatan Jagaran Jote, or United Sanatan Awakening Alliance, and the lawyer murder occurred Tuesday amid violent protests that followed during his court prosecution in the port city.

The High Court summoned the attorney-general to hear state opinion on the matter, initially asking for submission of a report within a day.

The lawyer lodged the petition along with a newspaper report at the High Court bench of Justice Farah Mahbub and Justice Debasish Roy Chowdhury on Wednesday.

Later, the attorney-general said he had told the court that it would not be appropriate to take any decision immediately.

"The government is seriously looking into this. Action is already being taken."

Regarding ISKCON, he told the court that the government will look into whether this organisation was registered, whether it could be banned, and what legal action could be taken against it and present it to the court.

The chief law officer sought a day for the information to be collected. The court later asked for a report by Thursday.

Chinmoy, a Hindu priest and a religious-minority leader in Bangladesh, has been advocating on behalf of the community across Bangladesh on an eight-point charter of demands.

He was arrested at Dhaka's Shahjalal International Airport by Dhaka Metropolitan Police's Detective Branch on Monday. He was produced in a Chattogram court in a 'sedition' case around 10:45am on Tuesday amid tight security.

The court sent Chinmoy Krishna to jail, turning down his bail appeal, and it set off violent protests by his supporters.

Following the jail order, the protesters clashed with lawyers and others in the area, leaving lawyer Saiful Islam Alif dead and some others injured.

Lawyers in Chattogram went on a two-day strike on Wednesday to protest the killing of lawyer Saiful Islam Alif. The lawyers said the court activities remained suspended since morning and the lawyers gathered on the court premises to demand immediate arrest of the perpetrators.

Meanwhile, two Namaj E Janaja for the slain Advocate Saiful Islam Alif was held on the court premises at 10 am and at Jamiatul Falah National Mosque ground at 11:30 am respectively. Thousands of people joined the namaz-e-janaza and protested the killing. A protest rally was staged where lawyers voiced their outrage and sought justice for their slain colleague.

Land Affairs Adviser AF Hassan Ariff, Chattogram City Corporation Mayor Dr Shahadat Hossain, Jamaat-e-Islami Chattogram Metropolitan Ameer Shahjahan Chowdhury, Anti-Discrimination Student Movement Coordinator Hasnat Abdullah, Sarjis Alam, Russell Ahmed, and Talat Mahmud Rafi, joined thousands of people at the protest rally.

Later, leaders from various political parties and student coordinators described ISKCON as a "fundamentalist militant group" and demanded immediate ban on ISKCON's activities in Bangladesh. They warned of continued protests if their demands are not met.

Meanwhile, Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) has arrested a number of persons as suspects in the murder of Advocate Saiful Islam Alif. Six of them were identified through the video footage. Besides, CMP also arrested 21 people for vandalism and assaults on police during clashes on Tuesday.

Additional Deputy Commissioner (PR and Media) of CMP Kazi Mohammad Tarek Aziz said, "CMP has detained at least six as suspects over the murder of lawyer Saiful Islam Alif. They were identified through video footage. The CMP has also detained 21 people for vandalism and assaults on police during clashes on Tuesday."

Students of Dhaka University (DU) on Tuesday night staged a protest demanding a ban on ISKCON over the heinous murder of Advocate Saiful Islam Alif in Chattogram.

The protest was organized by the 'Dhaka University Student Association of Lohagara-Satkania' at 9:30 PM at the VC square of DU.

Students of Jagannath University on Tuesday night condemned the brutal killing of lawyer Saiful Islam Alif and demanded an immediate ban of the Hindu nationalist organization ISKCON.

They accused the hardliner Hindu organization of threatening the country's sovereignty and engaging in extremist activities.

During a protest march that concluded with a rally at 9:30 pm, the students raised slogans such as "Ban ISKCON now," "No place for ISKCON in our Bengal," and "Break the black hands of ISKCON."​

 

[Saif]

India attempting to further provoke Chinmoy incident: Nahid

India is attempting to further escalate the situation surrounding the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das and related matters, Adviser Nahid Islam said on Wednesday. In a verified Facebook post, Nahid mentioned that the interim government is actively working to uphold the civil rights of minority c

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

India attempting to further provoke Chinmoy incident: Nahid
UNB
Published :
Nov 27, 2024 23:23
Updated :
Nov 27, 2024 23:23

India is attempting to further escalate the situation surrounding the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das and related matters, Adviser Nahid Islam said on Wednesday.

In a verified Facebook post, Nahid mentioned that the interim government is actively working to uphold the civil rights of minority communities in Bangladesh.

"We respect their legitimate demands and remain committed to resolving the issues through dialogue," he wrote.

"We urge all to recognise the negative impact India's interference in our internal security is having on the broader situation. Such statements amount to an intrusion by India," Nahid added.

He went on to say, "India is attempting to provoke the situation further. Instead, it should focus on ensuring the security and rights of its own minority communities. We call on India to act responsibly and to refrain from endorsing the false propaganda of the Awami League."

Earlier, on Tuesday, lawyer Saiful Islam was killed amid clashes among police, lawyers, and supporters of former ISKCON leader Chinmoy Krishna Das after a Chattogram court denied him bail in a sedition case.

Witnesses said unidentified people dragged Saiful to Jangal Cinema Lane on the ground floor of the court building, where he was beaten and hacked to death.

The unrest erupted when thousands of Chinmoy's followers gathered at the court premises, blocking the prison van carrying him and demanding his immediate release.​

 

[Saif]

‘Ban ISKCON, otherwise Hefazat-e-Islam will be forced to take to streets’: Mamunul Haque

Mamunul Haque, Joint Secretary General of Hefazat-e-Islam, today said that the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) is trying to "destabilize the country." He also demanded an immediate ban on ISKCON as a "terrorist organization". Speaking at a public rally organized

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

‘Ban ISKCON, otherwise Hefazat-e-Islam will be forced to take to streets’: Mamunul Haque
UNB
Published :
Nov 27, 2024 23:21
Updated :
Nov 27, 2024 23:21

Mamunul Haque, Joint Secretary General of Hefazat-e-Islam, today said that the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) is trying to "destabilize the country."

He also demanded an immediate ban on ISKCON as a "terrorist organization".

Speaking at a public rally organized by Khelafat Majlis at Faridpur Government Rajendra College, he said, "ISKCON must be banned immediately, otherwise, Hefazat-e-Islam will be forced to take to the streets."

He further emphasized that his organization would provide security to Hindus if the state fails to do so.

He reassured the Hindu community, saying, "There is no reason to fear. If necessary, we will provide protection. However, do not engage in any conspiracy against the country."

He also criticized the previous government, saying that it manipulated state institutions, including the judiciary and administration, for its own benefit. "The previous oppressive government did whatever it wanted by placing its people in key positions. They looted the country's banks, leaving the people unable to access their own money," he said.

The Hefazat-e-Islam leader urged the current government to swiftly hold national elections, warning that it should not remain in power for much longer.​

 

[Bilal9]

Nice expose on how ISKCON works (an outsider anti-Hindu and anti-peace organization bent on Hindutva domination in Bangladesh). Sorry Bengali only.

 

[Krishna with Flute]

HC seeks govt action on ISKCON clash, murder

The High Court on Wednesday directed the government to report on the actions taken regarding the killing of assistant public prosecutor Saiful Islam Alif, who was hacked to death during a violent clash on the Chattogram court premises on Tuesday...

www.newagebd.net

HC seeks govt action on ISKCON clash, murder
Staff Correspondent 27 November, 2024, 13:02

View attachment 11044
Front view of Supreme Court building in Dhaka. | Collected photo

The High Court on Wednesday directed the government to report on the actions taken regarding the killing of assistant public prosecutor Saiful Islam Alif, who was hacked to death during a violent clash on the Chattogram court premises on Tuesday.

The confrontation broke out as followers of former International Society for Krishna Consciousness leader Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, now spokesperson for Bangladesh Sammilita Sanatani Jagaran Jote, clashed with law enforcers.

The violence erupted after a Chattogram metropolitan magistrate rejected Chinmoy’s bail plea and ordered to send him to jail.

The bench Justice Farah Mahbub and Justice Debasish Roy Chowdhury issued the directive verbally to attorney general Md Asaduzzaman, responding to lawyer Md Monir Uddin’s plea for judicial intervention.

Monir urged the court to ensure the arrest, fair investigation and prosecution of those responsible for his colleague’s death.

Monir Uddin also called for drastic measures, including a 15-day state of emergency in Dinajpur, Rangpur, and Chattogram, and a ban on ISKCON, which he alleged was involved in the killing.

He based his claims on media reports and said that the incident escalated following a statement from India’s Ministry of External Affairs.

Speaking to reporters, Monir said, ‘ISKCON activists killed my colleague, as reported in newspapers. If ISKCON is not banned, their actions will spiral out of control.’

He further claimed that tension between Muslims and Hindus could lead to broader communal violence.

Monir also accused ISKCON protesters of obstructing Chinmoy’s transfer to jail and suggested that India’s statement had provoked the violence.

‘In my personal opinion, my brother was killed due to this provocation,’ he added.

Attorney general Md Asaduzzaman briefed journalists later, clarifying that banning ISKCON is a government policy decision and beyond the High Court’s jurisdiction.

‘The lawyer’s plea is premature. The court should wait for the government’s actions on this matter,’ he said.

He also noted that the government would investigate whether ISKCON is a licensed organisation and assured the court that steps would be taken following the inquiry.

The High Court is expected to hear the government’s response today.

A legal notice, meanwhile, was served on the government authorities seeking ban on the ISKCON following Section 18 of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 2009, calling it as an extremist organisation.

Lawyer Al Mamun Rasel, on behalf of his 10 clients—who are all Supreme Court lawyers, served the notice to the secretaries of ministries of the law and the home and the inspector general of police through registered posts.​

These goons are now pressurizing court by building a mob around in court premises. A clear lawless situation is emerging in BD. Situation in BD seems grim. Let us see what happens ahead. India should be on high alert not only on border but to protect Hindus of BD as and when it is required.

 

[Bilal9]

These goons are now pressurizing court by building a mob around in court premises. A clear lawless situation is emerging in BD. Situation in BD seems grim. Let us see what happens ahead. India should be on high alert not only on border but to protect Hindus of BD as and when it is required.

When did Bangladeshi Hindu citizens become property of India (or its concern).

This Hindutva narrative is blatant hegemony and attack on Bangladesh sovereignty.

We have an independent country - the more this hateful anti-Bangladesh narrative is propagated in India- the worse bilateral trade will suffer and boycotts will get.

 

[Krishna with Flute]

When did Bangladeshi Hindu citizens become property of India (or its concern).

This Hindutva narrative is blatant hegemony and attack on Bangladesh sovereignty.

We have an independent country - the more this hateful anti-Bangladesh narrative is propagated in India- the worse bilateral trade will suffer and boycotts will get.

India BD and Pakistan were one country before 1947. In Jinha Liyaqat pact, it was agreed upon by both countries to protect minorities. At that BD was a part of Pakistan. In case it is not respected, we have a right to intervene to protect Hindus and we shall do that. Even we intervened in Pakistan to protect you guys from the oppression of Pakistani army to save you guys and created BD way 5 decades back. If we did that for you Muslims who are always consider Hindus their enemy, we can certainly do that for our Hindu brothers as well who preferred to stay in BD because of whatever reason. Just wait for few months and watch the development.

 

[Vsdoc]

When did Bangladeshi Hindu citizens become property of India (or its concern).

This Hindutva narrative is blatant hegemony and attack on Bangladesh sovereignty.

We have an independent country - the more this hateful anti-Bangladesh narrative is propagated in India- the worse bilateral trade will suffer and boycotts will get.

Regardless.

Fk around and find out.

 

[Saif]

No discussion held to ban ISKCON: Rizwana

Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today said no discussion was held to ban International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in Bangladesh

www.thedailystar.net

No discussion held to ban ISKCON: Rizwana

Photo: Courtesy/BSS

Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan yesterday said no discussion was held to ban International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in Bangladesh.

"No discussion was held in the government to ban ISKCON [in Bangladesh]. Many may raise demands. People may take programmes to press home their demands. We are not mixing the offences of organisations with the offences of individuals," she told a press briefing, responding to a question.

The press briefing was held at Foreign Service Academy in the capital last evening.

About the arrest of Hindu leader Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, Rizwana said he was arrested on specific allegations and he is under trial now, she added.

Citing newspapers' reports, Rizwana said ISKCON has claimed that it has no relation with Chinmoy Krishna Das.

Speaking at the press briefing, adviser Mahfuj Alam said two cases have been filed in connection with the killing of a lawyer in Chattogram so far and more cases might follow.

Drives are going on to arrest those involved in the killing, he said.

Mahfuj said country's people together resisted the ill efforts of creating communal violence in the country.

In this context, he said, a delegation of BNP met Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus yesterday and a delegation of Jamaat-e-Islami called on him today.

He said both the parties stressed for national unity to maintain the country's sovereignty and resist the attempts of communal violence.

About the attacks on mazars, the adviser said the government is monitoring the situation and measures taken in this regard will be visible within a day or two.

He hoped that the ongoing situation will come back to normalcy with the help of all stakeholders concerned.

Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam also present at the press briefing.​

 

[Saif]

A grievous tragedy at Chattogram court

Govt must thoroughly investigate the clashes, hold to account those responsible

www.thedailystar.net

A grievous tragedy at Chattogram court
Govt must thoroughly investigate the clashes, hold to account those responsible

VISUAL: STAR

We are disturbed by the clashes that erupted on the Chattogram court premises on Tuesday, culminating in the brutal murder of Assistant Public Prosecutor Saiful Islam. Given the timing of these incidents—amid heightened tensions over recent attacks on media houses and violent disruptions by college students—it is not unreasonable to think that a sinister force is pulling the strings to destabilise the country through orchestrated chaos, making it all the more important that we remain careful and act responsibly at all times.

On Tuesday, violence broke out outside the Chattogram Court Building when Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, a controversial former ISKCON leader facing sedition charges for allegedly disrespecting the national flag, was denied bail. Reportedly, his followers confronted security officers and lawyers as he was about to be sent to jail, halting the prison van. Despite efforts to clear them, the protests persisted, and by late afternoon, law enforcement used stun grenades and batons to disperse the crowd. The situation quickly escalated into violent confrontations, leading to at least 37 individuals being injured, including 10 police officers. During the chaos, Saiful was fatally struck by lethal weapons. Several cars, motorcycles, and a lawyer's chamber were also vandalised.

It goes without saying that these developments have profound communal implications if left unaddressed. For a country that prides itself on a hard-won interfaith harmony, despite occasional provocations, these incidents represent a troubling rise in tensions that cannot be attributed solely to the fallen regime. Other vested interest groups maybe at play, as evidenced by reports about sections of the Indian media circulating false and inflammatory narratives—such as the erroneous claim that the slain advocate was Chinmoy's lawyer. Such misinformation, coupled with exaggerated claims about police handling of Hindu supporters, is clearly designed to deepen divisions. While it is reassuring that the public has largely resisted falling into communal traps so far, the need to be circumspect has never been more urgent.

The authorities' response to the crisis has been measured so far. Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus condemned Saiful's murder and promised a thorough investigation, urging calm and nonviolence. Local Government Adviser Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan earlier clarified that Chinmoy's arrest was based on allegations of sedition, not his religious identity. Such messaging is essential in countering misinformation. Six suspects linked to the killing of Saiful have been arrested based on video footage, while 21 others were detained for vandalism and assaulting police officers during the unrest. Notably, Reuters reported that among those arrested were six members of Awami League, who police said were found in possession of improvised explosives.

As investigations continue, it is crucial to separate fact from fiction. Baseless allegations and communal scapegoating will only serve to exacerbate tensions. The interim government, along with political and religious leaders, must demonstrate their commitment to peace, reconciliation, and rule of law, ensuring that those responsible for Tuesday's violence, including provocateurs, are held accountable. Only through collective resolve and vigilance can we prevent divisive forces from derailing post-uprising Bangladesh.​

 

[Saif]

Ban ISKCON, give it no quarter

Demanding an immediate ban on the ISKCON, leaders of the Anti-discrimination Students’ Movement yesterday warned they would not allow the religious platform to implement “Delhi’s agenda in Bangladesh”.

images.thedailystar.net

Ban ISKCON, give it no quarter
Student coordinators urge government

Demanding an immediate ban on the ISKCON, leaders of the Anti-discrimination Students' Movement yesterday warned they would not allow the religious platform to implement "Delhi's agenda in Bangladesh".

They also said a conspiracy is being hatched to destabilise the country, but the "minority theory" will not be allowed to divide the country.

The student leaders made the remarls at two separate events in Chattogram and Dhaka.

"ISKCON is acting as an agent of Awami League and attempting to destabilise the country. This extremist group is behind the brutal killing of Saiful Islam," Hasnat Abdullah, convener of the Anti-discrimination Students' Movement, said at a rally held at the Tiger Pass intersection in Chattogram.

He said Bangladesh is a land of coexistence, and extremists of any kind have no place here.

"We'll work to protect everyone's rights. However, no room will be given if anyone tries to operate an extremist organisation under the guise of religion. My brother Saiful was brutally murdered. ISKCON must be banned as a terrorist organisation."

The rally also sought justice for the murder of lawyer Saiful Islam Alif, urging the authorities to apprehend the killers within 24 hours.

Speaking at the event, Sarjis Alam, a member of Jatiya Nagorik Committee and general secretary of July Martyrs Memorial Foundation, said, "General Sanatanis in the country are peace-loving, but the agents of the dictator Hasina are trying to create an unstable situation by inciting ISKCON. However, we won't let that happen as long as we are alive."

Earlier in the day, the student leaders attended the second namaz-e-janaza for Saiful Islam at Jamiatul Falah Mosque in the port city's Wasa intersection.

In the capital, speaking at a rally in the Central Shahid Minar, Abdul Hannan Masud, chief organiser of the students' platform, alleged ISKCON is working to implement Delhi's agenda in Bangladesh at the instructions of the Awami League President Sheikh Hasina.

"But their plan to pit Hindus and Muslims against each other in this country will never succeed."

He said no conspiracy will be silently tolerated anymore.

"Collaborators of the Awami League are still lurking in many places, trying to destablise the country in various ways. We have decided that wherever they are found, they will be beaten by the public and handed over to the police."

Umama Fatema, spokesperson for the platform, said that after August 5, Sheikh Hasina's last trump card was an attack on minorities.

"She wanted to portray that an Islamic revolution was taking place in Bangladesh, that Muslims were endangering Hindus, and that Hindus were unsafe in the country. The entire plot was orchestrated by India."

She alleged that since August 5 the Indian media has been aggressively pushing the minority issue in Bangladesh.

Criticising the interim government for its failure to address the propaganda allegedly spread by India, Umama said, "I believe it was the responsibility of the government to inform the world that India is running a propaganda against Bangladesh through its media…. However, we observed that the government was lenient towards India."

She also said that Bangladesh's peaceful domestic politics is perceived as a threat to India's pro-Hindu agenda.

"We must remain vigilant in our politics to ensure that neither India nor the Awami League can politicise the minority issue."

Central Coordinator Mahin Sarkar reiterated, "ISKCON is a militant organisation. We demand it be banned…. However, we must not fall into any traps laid by the Awami League. Everyone must remain calm and patient."​