Bangladesh has informed the United Nations that the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, a leader of the Sanatan Jagaran Manch, is being misinterpreted.
In a statement, Bangladesh’s Permanent Representative to the UN and other international organizations in Geneva, Ambassador Tareq Md. Ariful Islam, clarified the situation.
The statement, received Friday night, mentioned that Ambassador Islam delivered it during the 17th session of the UN Forum on Minority Issues in Geneva on Thursday.
“Arrest Based on Specific Allegations”
Ambassador Islam expressed disappointment over the misrepresentation of Chinmoy Das’s arrest by certain speakers, emphasizing that the arrest was based on specific charges, which are currently being addressed through legal processes.
He added, “Regrettably, at a time when the people of Bangladesh are setting a glorious example of religious harmony, we see exaggerated, baseless, and fabricated reports, as well as intentional misinformation spread by vested interests about minority persecution. Unfortunately, we have observed such distortions even in this forum.”
Media and Global Observers Welcome
The Permanent Representative noted that global media has rejected much of this propaganda, and the interim government of Bangladesh is prepared to welcome foreign journalists to observe the situation firsthand.
“Religious Freedom and Security for All”
He stressed that every Bangladeshi, regardless of religious identity, has the right to practice their faith and express their opinions freely. Ensuring the safety of every citizen, including members of minority communities, remains a cornerstone of the interim government’s policies.
“Proactive Measures to Maintain Harmony”
Ambassador Islam highlighted that top leadership has repeatedly reassured minority religious leaders about their rights and has demonstrated this commitment within the first 100 days of the interim government. Two advisors have been appointed from minority communities.
He also noted the government’s swift intervention following the recent brutal murder of a Muslim lawyer, which, with the support of leaders from all religions, helped maintain peace and avoid further incidents.
“Violence Rooted in Political, Not Communal, Causes”
Referring to the post-August 5 violence, he emphasized that it stemmed from political and personal disputes rather than communal tensions. He clarified that the affected individuals were mostly Muslims, with only a few from other minority groups.
Dismissing claims of targeted attacks on minorities, Ambassador Islam said, “Instead, following the July uprising, the world witnessed how the entire Bangladeshi society upheld the country’s longstanding tradition of communal harmony by coming forward to protect minorities.”
Wide Support for Interim Government
He further stated that the interim government, led by Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, enjoys unprecedented and extraordinary support from people of all faiths across the country.
Source: BSS
