The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has expressed “deep concern” over the arrest and denial of bail to Chinmoy Krishna Das, spokesperson for Sanatan Jagaran Jote.
New Delhi in a statement on Tuesday urged Bangladeshi authorities to ensure the safety and security of Hindus and other minorities, including their right to peacefully assemble and express themselves.
Chinmoy Krishna Das was arrested on Monday at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka while en route to Chittagong, where he resides.
The next day, a Chittagong court sent him to jail rejecting a petition for his bail.
The Indian ministry said: “We have noted with deep concern the arrest and denial of bail to Shri Chinmoy Krishna Das, who is also the spokesperson of the Bangladesh Sammilit Sanatan Jagran Jote. This incident follows the multiple attacks on Hindus and other minorities by extremist elements in Bangladesh.”
It claimed there are “several documented cases of arson and looting of minorities' homes and business establishments, as well as theft and vandalism and desecration of deities and temples.”
The Ministry of External Affairs said: “It is unfortunate that while the perpetrators of these incidents remain at large, charges should be pressed against a religious leader presenting legitimate demands through peaceful gatherings.
“We also note with concern the attacks on minorities protesting peacefully against the arrest of Shri Das. We urge Bangladesh authorities to ensure the safety and security of Hindus and all minorities, including their right of freedom of peaceful assembly and expression.”