#SaveHindus: One More Iskcon Temple In Bangladesh Set Ablaze, Idols Damaged

The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) has reported a distressing incident involving their centre in Dhaka, Bangladesh. According to Radharamn Das, ISKCON Kolkata's vice president, another ISKON temple was set on fire early on Saturday morning. The attack targeted the deities and items within the temple, causing significant damage.

Concerns Over Safety

Das expressed deep concern over the ongoing attacks against ISKCON members and the Vaishnavite community. He highlighted that despite bringing these issues to the attention of Bangladesh's interim government, little action has been taken by authorities to address their grievances or ensure their safety.

The fire at the ISKCON Namhatta Centre was reportedly started by lifting the tin roof at the back of the temple and using petrol or octane. The attack occurred between 2-3 AM at a location under Turag Police Station's jurisdiction in Dhaka district. The deities of Sri Sri Laxmi Narayan were among those destroyed in this act of vandalism.

Political Reactions

West Bengal BJP president and Union minister Sukanta Majumdar condemned the arson attack on social media. He described it as an "unforgivable act of hatred" against a place of worship and called for immediate action to bring those responsible to justice. Majumdar emphasised the need to ensure the safety of religious minorities in Bangladesh.

ISKCON India has also voiced its concerns regarding the safety of Hindus in Bangladesh. They have advised monks and followers in Bangladesh to practice their faith discreetly and avoid wearing 'tilaks' due to ongoing targeted attacks. This advice comes amidst increasing violence since August when an interim government replaced the Awami League.

Community Leaders Targeted

The situation is further complicated by concerns for Hindu community leader Chinmoy Krishna Das, who remains in custody without bail amid violent attacks. His safety is a pressing issue for ISKCON members who fear for his well-being given the current climate of hostility towards religious minorities.

Since August, there have been multiple attacks on ISKCON properties across Bangladesh following political changes in the country. These incidents highlight a worrying trend of violence against religious communities, raising questions about their protection under current governance.

The recent events underscore an urgent need for intervention to protect religious minorities in Bangladesh. Ensuring justice for such acts is crucial in maintaining communal harmony and safeguarding places of worship from future attacks.