A Chattogram court in Bangladesh has rejected the bail petition of Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, a former ISKCON monk, under heavy security. The court decision came out after a 30 minutes hearing presided over by Chattogram Metropolitan Sessions judge Md Saiful Islam. The case has attracted much attention mainly because it involves a high profile personality.
Legal Actions and Advocacy
Seven High Court lawyers and four Supreme Court lawyers including Apurba Kumar Bhattacharyee appeared for the petitioner Chinmoy Krishna Das. However, they have failed to change the mind of the court to grant them bail Since their arguments on the merit of the case were wrong. Bhattacharjee expressed his readiness to stand for the former monk and declared his independence to act as a lawyer without seeking permission from local attorneys.
Arrest and Background
The cricketer was arrested on November 25 on charges of sedition for hoisting a saffron flag above Bangladesh’s national flag in Chattogram. His arrest preceded protest where instance of violence occurred on Chattogram Court Building on 27/11/2021 where one lawyer died.
The situation got worse when two monks, Adipurush Shyam Das and Ranganath Das Brahmachari were arrested on November 29, after they went visiting Chinmoy Krishna Das when the later was In Custody.
Allegations and Defense
Chinmoy Krishna Das side in the legal drama has accused him of being framed in an attempt to derail his support of the Hindus. According to Lawyer Bhattacharjee, the charges leveled seek to keep the monk in prison as long as possible.
Broader Implications
The case has pointed to increasing tensions and reported persecution of Hindu leaders in Bangladesh. ISKCON of Kolkata has raised concern over the plight of their followers and is watching the situation carefully.
Nevertheless, the Chinmoy Krishna Das’s defense team continues working hard to search for justice, operating in what they call politically motivated case.
