Prominent Sunni Muslim leader condemns arrest of Hindu monk in Bangladesh

Kozhikode (Kerala): A prominent Sunni Muslim leader on Wednesday condemned the arrest of a Hindu monk last week by Bangladeshi police and urged the neighbouring country to ensure the safety and well-being of its minority communities immediately.

In a statement, Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad, popularly known as Kanthapuram A P Aboobacker Musaliyar, criticised the recent arrest of monk Chinmoy Krishna Das by Bangladeshi police on November 25, claiming that it had triggered widespread violence and heightened tensions in various parts of the country.

He argued that these developments were "alarming signs of insecurity" among minorities in Bangladesh.

The Sunni Muslim leader stated that governments must refrain from "actions that provoke emotional responses among ordinary people or deepen communal divides."

He urged the Bangladeshi government to "prioritise peace and harmony" and "take decisive measures to restrict communalism."

He also called upon the Indian government to "extend constructive support to Bangladesh in fostering stability and protecting minority rights." In his statement, Ahmad emphasised the need for collective efforts to prevent the marginalisation of minority communities and promote coexistence in the region.

India has expressed concerns over attacks on minorities, especially Hindus, in Bangladesh, since Sheikh Hasina resigned as Prime Minister in August following months of student-led protests.

Hindu leader Chinmoy Krishna Das, a spokesperson for the Bangladesh Sammilita Sanatani Jagran Jote, was arrested at Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport last week for alleged sedition.

He was denied bail and sent to jail by a Chattogram court last week, sparking protests by his supporters.

Subsequently, two more monks associated with ISKCON were detained.