Bangladesh Freezes Bank Accounts of 17 Linked to ISKCON

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

1. Bangladesh froze the bank accounts of 17 individuals linked to ISKCON.
2. The move followed the High Court’s rejection of a plea to ban ISKCON.
3. Arrested monk Chinmoy Krishna Das faces sedition charges.
4. Authorities have ordered detailed account investigations.
5. India expressed concern for minority rights in Bangladesh.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

Freeze on ISKCON-Linked Bank Accounts

Bangladesh’s Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU) ordered the freezing of bank accounts belonging to 17 individuals connected to ISKCON. This action followed a Bangladesh High Court decision rejecting a petition to ban the Hindu organization. The freeze will last for 30 days, with banks directed to submit detailed transaction reports.

Arrest and Controversy Surrounding Chinmoy Das

Chinmoy Krishna Das, a former ISKCON monk, was arrested on November 25 on sedition charges. Authorities accused him of disrespecting the Bangladeshi flag during a protest. His arrest triggered violent demonstrations and calls to ban ISKCON. However, the High Court dismissed these demands, citing lack of evidence.

Government’s Investigation and International Reaction

The Bangladeshi government instructed banks to review all transactions associated with the 17 individuals within three working days. India responded by urging Prime Minister Mohammad Yunus’s government to protect minority rights, highlighting growing international concerns over Hindu persecution in Bangladesh.

ISKCON Denies Allegations

ISKCON Bangladesh refuted allegations linking them to the lawyer’s murder, calling the accusations baseless and politically motivated. They asserted their commitment to peace and religious tolerance.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

• Bangladesh froze bank accounts of 17 ISKCON-linked individuals.
• Monk Chinmoy Das faces sedition charges.
• The High Court rejected the ISKCON ban plea.
• India urged Bangladesh to protect minority rights.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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