Dhaka, Nov 28 (V7N)- The High Court of Bangladesh has emphasized that the decision to ban the International Krishna Bhavamrita Sangha (ISKCON) lies solely with the government, and the judiciary will not interfere in the matter. The bench, comprising Justice Farah Mahbub and Justice Debashish Roy Chowdhury, expressed this position during a hearing on Thursday.

Additional Attorney General Barrister Anik R. Haque and Deputy Attorney General Md. Asad Uddin informed the court that the government is adopting a firm stance on ISKCON following allegations of its involvement in activities that may undermine national harmony. The government’s legal representatives also updated the court on developments in the murder case of Chittagong lawyer Saiful Islam Alif, stating that three cases have been filed and 33 suspects have been arrested so far.

The High Court acknowledged these measures and expressed satisfaction with the government’s actions, particularly in ensuring the safety and security of all citizens, regardless of religion.

The petition, brought forward by lawyer Md. Monir Uddin, called for a ban on ISKCON, alleging that the organization is advancing foreign agendas within Bangladesh. He cited published reports as evidence of ISKCON’s purported activities that, according to him, conflict with national interests.

On Wednesday, the High Court had asked the state to clarify ISKCON’s legal standing in Bangladesh, including its registration status and activities.

The court noted that while Bangladesh is a Muslim-majority country, it has long maintained peaceful coexistence among different religious communities. It reiterated that the state bears the responsibility to protect the lives and property of all citizens, ensuring the continuity of interfaith harmony.

The scrutiny of ISKCON comes in the wake of heightened communal tensions following the murder of lawyer Saiful Islam Alif in Chittagong, allegedly linked to followers of the Sanatani Jagran Jote, of which ISKCON spokesperson Chinmoy Krishna Das is a member. The government has been under pressure to address the situation amid claims of foreign influence and rising communal friction.

The government is expected to continue its investigations into ISKCON’s activities while determining its course of action. The High Court has reserved further comments, awaiting detailed updates from the state.

The situation highlights the delicate balance between national security concerns and the protection of religious freedoms in Bangladesh.

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