Bangladesh Court Denies Bail to Hindu Saint Chinmoy Das, Extending His Time in Jail

Chinmoy Krishna Das, the Hindu saint arrested in Bangladesh and kept behind bars for more than a month, was denied bail by the Chattogram Metropolitan Sessions Court on Thursday. Though there was a 30-minute-long argument, he was not given bail. Before that, on December 11, his initial plea for bail had been rejected on procedural grounds.

Health Issues and Lawyer

The lawyers of Chinmoy Das presented that he suffers from severe medical conditions and is being detained wrongfully. On account of his poor health, Das was admitted to a hospital with chest pain and could not attend the hearing on January 2. In his absence, 11 lawyers appeared in court.

Charges of Desecration of the Flag

Chinmoy Das is accused of desecrating the Bangladeshi national flag during a Hindu community rally in Chattogram on October 25. The complaint was filed by former BNP leader Feroz Khan, who has since been expelled from the party. Police have arrested two individuals in connection with the case and continue their investigation.

Global Attention and Calls for Justice

ISKCON Kolkata Vice President Radha Raman expressed deep disappointment over the court's decision, saying that the global community had hoped for Das's release at the start of the new year. He urged the Bangladeshi government to ensure justice for Das, highlighting the significant international focus on the case.