Violence erupted in Bangladesh as three Hindu temples in Chattogram were attacked on Tuesday. The targeted temples included Lokonath Temple in Firangi Bazar, Mansa Mata Temple, and Kali Mata Temple in Hazari Lane.
Rising Violence Against Minorities
These attacks are part of a growing pattern of violence against Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. The situation has worsened since Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was deposed in a coup on August 5.
Hindus Protest Islamist Attacks
The unrest began when large numbers of Hindus held peaceful protests in response to organized attacks by Islamist radicals. The protests were led by ISKCON, a Hindu religious organization with followers worldwide.
Chinmoy Krishna Das Detained
As tensions rose, Chinmoy Krishna Das, a prominent ISKCON monk and leader, was detained at Dhaka Airport on Monday. His arrest further fueled the protests.
Clashes with Security Forces in Thakurgaon
The situation escalated when the Bangladesh Army clashed with Hindu protesters in Thakurgaon. The protesters were demanding the release of Chinmoy Krishna Das. The army’s attack on the peaceful protestors added to the growing violence.
Read: Protests Erupt in Bangladesh Over Detention of ISKCON Leader Chinmoy Krishna Das
ISKCON Condemns Arrest and Violence
ISKCON Bangladesh condemned the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das and the ongoing attacks on Hindus in various regions of Bangladesh.
Public Prosecutor Killed in Clash
The violence intensified when a violent clash broke out between security forces and Hindu leader Chinmoy Krishna Das’s supporters. During the clash, a public prosecutor, Saiful Islam, was killed, and several others were injured. Islam, a 35-year-old assistant public prosecutor, was a member of the Chattogram District Bar Association, according to the Dhaka Tribune.