Dhaka: Tensions flared in Bangladesh on Tuesday after violent clashes between supporters of an arrested Hindu leader and security forces. The unrest began when Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, a prominent monk and spokesperson for the newly-formed Hindu group, Bangladesh Sammilito Sanatan Jagaran Jote, was denied bail on sedition charges. One person was confirmed dead following the confrontation, according to police.
Brahmachari, who has been vocal about the protection of Hindu minorities in the predominantly Muslim nation, was arrested on Monday while traveling from Dhaka to Chittagong. His arrest came amid increasing tensions over the treatment of minorities since the political upheaval in August, which saw Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina flee to India after a student-led revolt.
On Tuesday, following Brahmachari’s court appearance, his supporters gathered outside the prison van in Chittagong, demanding his release. As the situation escalated, protesters threw stones, and security forces responded with stun grenades and baton charges. The crowd’s efforts to free Brahmachari were unsuccessful, and he was escorted to prison in a police vehicle.
During the clashes, a public prosecutor, identified as Saiful Islam Alif, was fatally injured in the head. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation, including from interim leader Muhammad Yunus, who promised an investigation and urged calm, emphasizing the government’s commitment to preserving communal harmony.
Meanwhile, India expressed its concerns over the situation, particularly given the ongoing attacks on minorities by extremist groups in Bangladesh.
