Bangladesh: ISKCON members perform kirtan by candlelight, protest against attack on devotees
Members of ISKCON Mayapur and Kolkata took part in demonstrations on Sunday, demanding action against miscreants who attacked its temple in Bangladesh two days ago, allegedly killing one person and injuring several .
The protesters took out candle marches, sang kirtan to the accompaniment of ‘Khol Kartal’ and chanted ‘Hare Krishna’ at both the places. In Kolkata, they protested outside the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission for nearly two hours after the police barricaded its entrance. Mayapur is the global headquarters of ISKCON.
Several protesters were carrying posters demanding the protection of Hindus in Bangladesh.
Kolkata Vice President Radharaman Das, “We are saddened and hurt. We promote peace and brotherhood. How can mobs target us? We have always been on the side of the people of Noakhali (in Bangladesh).” Maintained by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON).
Das also said that ISKCON members will protest outside all embassies, consulates, high commissions of Bangladesh across the world on Monday, demanding protection of minorities in that country and action against those involved in the attacks.
He said that a letter has been written to the United Nations in protest against the incident.
Two days ago, the global organization tweeted, “The ISKCON temple and devotees were violently attacked today by a mob in Noakhali, Bangladesh. The temple was heavily damaged…
“We call on the Bangladesh government to ensure the safety of all Hindus and bring the perpetrators to justice.”
On Saturday, it said Partha Das, a member of ISKCON, was murdered by a mob of over 200 people. His body was found in a pond next to the temple.
Several temples and Durga Puja pandals have been attacked in Bangladesh in the past few days, leading to conflict and tension in the neighboring country. It is being told that at least four people died in the violence.
Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said earlier this week that action would be taken against those trying to “disturb communal harmony”. He said that the culprits would be caught and punished.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) noted that the government in the neighboring country has responded quickly to ensure that the situation is under control and added that the Indian mission is in close contact with Bangladeshi authorities on the matter.
.