Is Chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' Considered a Terrorist Act in Bangladesh? DNA Analysis Clarifies

In a controversial move, Bangladeshi police have labeled the Hindu religious organization ISKCON as a "terrorist group," alleging its involvement in recent communal violence. This accusation comes on the heels of a sedition charge against Chinmoy Krishna Das, a prominent ISKCON preacher, further heightening pressure on Hindu communities in the country. Zee News' latest DNA segment delves into this alarming development: While India's Supreme Court has taken steps to curb divisive practices, across the border in Bangladesh, anti-Hindu sentiment appears to be intensifying unchecked.

What began as extremist groups targeting Hindu minorities has escalated, with government agencies now accusing Hindu organizations like ISKCON of terrorism. Critics argue that these allegations are baseless attempts by the administration under Mohammad Yunus to tie ISKCON’s devotional activities to communal unrest, crafting a narrative that marginalizes the Hindu minority. ISKCON, widely recognized for its humanitarian efforts during crises such as floods, stands in stark contrast to extremist groups that frequently issue threats against Hindus.

Observers are questioning the true intent behind this crackdown. Some believe the Bangladeshi government, facing growing international scrutiny, is leveraging these charges to create instability. Former U.S. President Donald Trump recently raised concerns about the safety of Hindus in Bangladesh, signaling strained relations with Yunus’s administration. Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s Awami League has filed a complaint against Yunus’s government with the International Criminal Court (ICC), potentially prompting an investigation. 

If the ICC proceeds, it could trigger significant political shifts, including the potential return of Sheikh Hasina. Analysts suggest that by fostering communal tensions, Yunus may be seeking to delay democratic processes and consolidate his position amidst growing political turmoil.