Sadhguru, Sri Sri, Condemn Arrest Of ISKCON Leader In Bangladesh

NEW DELHI (ANI) – Prominent spiritual leaders Sadhguru and Sri Sri Ravi Shankar have expressed strong criticism over the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, a former ISKCON leader, by Bangladeshi authorities. Krishna Das, also known as Chandan Kumar Dhar, was detained at Dhaka airport on November 25 on sedition charges stemming from a case filed on October 31. The allegations involve disrespecting the Bangladeshi national flag during a Hindu community rally in Chattogram in August.

Taking to social media platform X, Sadhguru condemned Bangladesh’s shift toward theocratic and autocratic governance, calling for a revival of democratic values. “It is disgraceful to see a democratic nation disintegrating. Persecution based on religion or demographics is not the way forward,” he wrote, urging citizens to work toward rebuilding an inclusive democracy.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, founder of the Art of Living Foundation, also criticized the arrest in a video message, stating, “Arresting spiritual leaders will harm Bangladesh’s image and foster division.” He called on Nobel laureate and interim Bangladeshi Prime Minister Mohammad Yunus to ensure peace and security for minorities, expressing disappointment in Yunus’ leadership. Ravi Shankar further urged the Indian government and international community to intervene and ensure the protection of minorities in Bangladesh.

The arrest has sparked outrage among religious organizations, with ISKCON labeling the allegations “baseless” and urging India to press for Krishna Das’ release. Violent protests erupted in Dhaka following the detention, leading to the death of public prosecutor Saiful Islam Alif.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs expressed concern over Krishna Das’ arrest and the denial of bail, urging Bangladesh to safeguard minorities.