Bangladesh ex-PM Sheikh Hasina condemns Chittagong violence, seeks release of Hindu Monk Chinmoy Das
PTC Web Desk: Deposed Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday decried the killing of a lawyer in Chittagong and the arrest of Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das, calling for his immediate release.
Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India following violent protests in August, alleged widespread human rights abuses by the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus. She highlighted the persecution of opposition leaders and students, urging an end to "anarchist activities."
Addressing the recent violence, Sheikh Hasina flayed the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das and attacks on religious minorities. “A prominent Sanatan religious leader has been unjustly detained. He must be released immediately,” she said. Hasina also condemned the burning of a temple in Chittagong and previous attacks on mosques, shrines, churches, and Ahmadiyya homes, calling for the protection of religious freedom and safety for all communities.
The killing of Saiful Islam, an assistant public prosecutor, during clashes between security forces and Das’s followers, has further inflamed tensions. The clashes erupted after Das was denied bail in a sedition case. Hasina demanded swift justice for the murder. “This brutal killing of a lawyer fulfilling his professional duties is a grave violation of human rights. Those responsible must face immediate punishment,” she said.
Sheikh Hasina accused the interim government of failing to maintain law and order. “The unconstitutional regime has failed to protect citizens and safeguard human rights,” she stated. Warning of consequences, she added, “If they do not take action against these terrorists, the regime itself will face justice for its failures.”
The arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das has triggered massive protests within Bangladesh’s Hindu community, which has reportedly faced over 200 attacks since August 5. India's Ministry of External Affairs expressed concern over the incident, condemning attacks on minorities and urging the Bangladeshi government to ensure their safety.
Sheikh Hasina called on citizens to unite against violence and injustice. “Everyone must stand together to resist terror and ensure the safety of life and property,” she urged. “The current regime is failing in every domain.”
Das was arrested at Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Monday while en route to a rally in Chittagong. His detention has become a rallying point for opposition protests and intensified tensions within the country.
- With inputs from agencies
