Chittagong, Bangladesh — Tensions escalated in Bangladesh’s port city of Chittagong on Tuesday following the arrest of ISKCON leader Chinmoy Krishna Das, leading to violent clashes and the alleged murder of a lawyer, Saiful Islam Alif.
The incident has sparked nationwide concern, with the Chittagong Bar Association suspending court activities in protest. “Saiful Islam Alif was brutally hacked to death,” stated Ashraf Hossain Razzak, General Secretary of the Chittagong Bar Association. Law enforcement agencies are investigating the motive behind the killing, which remains unclear.
Protests Over Arrest of Hindu Leader
Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, a Hindu priest and spokesperson for Sammilita Sanatani Jagran Jote, was detained at Dhaka airport on Monday on charges of sedition. The case alleges he hoisted a flag on a structure bearing Bangladesh’s national flag, though the complainant has reportedly withdrawn his support for the case.
Arrest has provoked widespread demonstrations, particularly in Chittagong, where thousands gathered at court premises demanding his release. Protesters blocked a prison van after a court denied Brahmachari’s bail and ordered his detention. Police responded with tear gas and sound grenades to disperse the crowd. After hours of unrest, Brahmachari was taken to jail.
Lawyer’s Killing Sparks Outrage
violent clashes turned fatal when lawyer Saiful Islam Alif was reportedly killed. Chittagong Bar Association has called for a suspension of court activities on Wednesday to protest the killing of a member. “This is a direct attack on the legal community,” said Razzak.
Law enforcement agencies have increased security across the country, deploying additional forces in Chittagong and Dhaka to prevent further escalation.
Reactions from Minority Leaders
arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das has drawn sharp criticism from minority leaders and rights groups. Bangladesh Hindu Bouddha Christian Unity Council (BHBCUC), the largest minority advocacy group in the country, condemned the arrest, calling it a violation of freedom of expression and a blow to Bangladesh’s international reputation.
“Prabhu Chinmoy Krishna Das was advocating for the rights of the Hindu community and organizing an 8-point demand for minority protection,” said Manindra Kumar Nath, Acting General Secretary of BHBCUC. “This arrest undermines values of justice and human rights.”
The group urged the interim government to release Brahmachari immediately and address the growing concerns of minority communities in Bangladesh.
Government Response
Chief Advisor to the interim government, Muhammad Yunus, expressed deep concern over the lawyer’s murder and has ordered an investigation into the killing. “We condemn this heinous act and urge all citizens to remain calm and refrain from engaging in violence,” Yunus stated. He also instructed law enforcement to bolster security in vulnerable areas, particularly in Chittagong.
Impact on Bangladesh’s Stability
arrest of a prominent minority leader and ensuing unrest highlight deep-rooted tensions within Bangladesh’s diverse society. Clashes, combined with the killing of a legal professional, have raised concerns about Untry’s ability to maintain communal harmony during this politically sensitive period.
As investigations continue, all eyes are on the interim government’s ability to address the challenges while upholding justice and protecting minority rights.
