The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) reported a devastating arson attack on its Namhatta Centre in Dhaka, Bangladesh, early Saturday morning. The incident, which has sparked outrage and concern globally, saw the destruction of idols, sacred items, and the temple itself, the ISKCON said.
According to ISKCON Kolkata Vice President Radharamn Das, the arson occurred between 2–3 AM in Dhour village, under the jurisdiction of Turag Police Station in Dhaka district. Das revealed on social media that the attackers lifted the temple’s tin roof and used petrol or octane to ignite the fire.
“The deities of Sri Sri Laxmi Narayan and all items inside the temple were burned down completely,” he said. Das called the attack a deliberate act of hatred against the Vaishnavite community and lamented the ongoing targeted attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh.
Growing Concerns for Safety
Das highlighted the increasing vulnerability of Hindus in Bangladesh, particularly since the installation of the interim government and the ousting of the Awami League in August. Over the past four months, ISKCON properties have reportedly been targeted multiple times across the country.
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Expressing concern, he stated that ISKCON has urged its monks and followers in Bangladesh to practice their faith discreetly, advising them not to wear traditional religious symbols like ’tilaks’ for their safety.
Arrest of Hindu Leader Raises Alarm
The safety of Hindu community leader Chinmoy Krishna Das, currently in custody after being denied bail, has also been called into question. ISKCON leaders have voiced fears over his well-being amidst the escalating violence.
West Bengal BJP President and Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar condemned the attack, describing it as an “unforgivable act of hatred against a place of worship.” He urged immediate action to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety of religious minorities in Bangladesh.
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Majumdar’s statement reflects growing calls for accountability and justice, as concerns mount over the treatment of minorities in the region.
International Outcry
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation, with many questioning the Bangladeshi interim government’s efforts to safeguard minority communities. Despite ISKCON repeatedly drawing attention to the ongoing violence, Das alleged that the local police and administration have done little to address their grievances or ensure protection.
ISKCON and other Hindu organizations in Bangladesh have faced repeated attacks over the years. This latest incident underscores the fragile position of religious minorities in the country and the pressing need for stronger measures to protect their rights and freedoms.
Moving Forward
The arson attack on ISKCON’s Namhatta Centre is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by religious minorities in Bangladesh. As the global community reacts, the spotlight remains on the Bangladeshi government to uphold religious harmony and take decisive action against perpetrators of such heinous acts.
