Protests erupted in Bangladesh after the arrest of Chinmoy Das, a Hindu monk, leading to clashes and the death of a lawyer in Chittagong.
The protests, by the Sanatani Hindus group, demand better protection for religious minorities (Hindus, Christians, Buddhists) from Islamist mobs.
Over 2,000 incidents of violence have targeted minorities, with at least nine deaths, often linked to the ruling Awami League party.
Chinmoy Das, associated with ISKCON, called for:
Speedy trials for minority persecution.
A minority protection law and a minority affairs ministry.
Five-day Durga Puja holidays.
The Bangladesh government, led by Muhammad Yunus, has not yet responded to these demands and is cracking down on peaceful protests.
Chinmoy Das was arrested on charges related to a group of Hindus raising saffron flags allegedly higher than the national flag.
The case was filed by a political activist who has since been expelled from the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party, raising questions about the fairness of the case.
India has urged Bangladesh to protect its minorities, but tensions between the two countries have limited India's influence.
Bangladesh’s Foreign Ministry accused India of misrepresenting the situation.
India needs to reopen diplomatic channels with Bangladesh to ensure minority protection and advocate for religious freedoms
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