The bail hearing, held under tight security, saw the participation of 11 Supreme Court lawyers advocating on behalf of Das. Despite their efforts, the court dismissed the bail plea, citing the gravity of the charges.
Das's arrest has ignited significant unrest among his followers and the broader Hindu community in Bangladesh. Protests erupted in various regions, with demonstrators demanding his immediate release and expressing concerns over the treatment of religious minorities in the predominantly Muslim nation.
The situation escalated when, following a previous court appearance, clashes between Das's supporters and law enforcement resulted in the death of a Muslim lawyer, Saiful Islam Alif. This incident prompted widespread condemnation and led to a boycott of court proceedings by lawyers in Chattogram, further intensifying communal tensions.
In response to the unrest, Bangladeshi authorities have heightened security measures, particularly in Chattogram and Dhaka, to prevent further violence. Law enforcement agencies have conducted multiple arrests, including individuals allegedly involved in the clashes and those suspected of inciting violence.
The arrest and subsequent denial of bail for Das have also drawn international attention. The Indian government has expressed deep concern over the situation, urging Bangladesh to ensure the safety and rights of its Hindu minority. In response, Bangladeshi officials have emphasized that the matter is an internal legal issue and have assured that due process is being followed.
Chinmoy Krishna Das, formerly associated with the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), has been a prominent figure in advocating for the rights and protection of Hindus in Bangladesh. His arrest is perceived by supporters as a targeted action against minority leaders, while authorities maintain that the charges are solely based on the alleged act of disrespecting the national flag, which constitutes a serious offense under Bangladeshi law.