Protests erupt in Chittagong after the anti-ISKCON post, leading to joint-force arrests.
In Chittagong, Bangladesh, tensions escalated following a controversial Facebook post by Osman Ali, a local grocer, labeling the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) as a “terrorist group.”
The post incited protests from the Hindu community, leading to a confrontation with law enforcement and joint army patrols.
Protest and Police Clash in Hazari Gali
The Hindu-majority Hazari Gali neighborhood, home to several jewelry and medicine shops, turned into a conflict zone as protesters confronted police and army forces.
According to local reporter Saifuddin Tuhin, bricks and glass bottles were thrown at security personnel, and some protesters allegedly used acid from nearby shops.
Witnesses reported significant injuries, with five soldiers and seven policemen wounded during the skirmish.
Joint Forces Detain Suspects, Review Evidence
During the night, joint forces arrested around 80 individuals in Hazari Gali, aiming to control the unrest.
Lieutenant Colonel Ferdous Ahmed confirmed the arrests and stated that authorities are reviewing local intelligence and CCTV footage to identify key instigators for legal action.
Blank shots were reportedly fired to disperse the crowd, as tensions continued to simmer.
ISKCON Calls for Apology Amid Growing Unrest
ISKCON leaders in Dhaka called for a formal apology from Mahmudur Rahman, editor of “Amar Desh,” who publicly supported the anti-ISKCON sentiments.
The incident aligns with growing pressure from groups like “Inqilab Manch” to ban ISKCON, an issue that has polarized public opinion.
The recent clash underscores ongoing religious tensions in Bangladesh, where Hindus, making up 8% of the population, have traditionally aligned with the Awami League.
Amid political instability and a new interim government under Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, this incident adds to the delicate socio-political landscape.
