Bangladesh blocks ISKCON devotees from entering India, citing ‘suspicious’ travel despite valid documents

Bangladeshi authorities turn back over 50 ISKCON members from crossing into India

Diplomatic tensions between India and Bangladesh have intensified following Bangladesh’s denial of entry to over 50 members of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) into India. Despite possessing valid passports and visas, these individuals were turned back at the Benapole border crossing, with authorities labeling their travel as ‘suspicious.’

On December 1 and 2, 2024, 54 ISKCON devotees from various districts arrived at the Benapole check post, aiming to participate in a religious ceremony in India. They were denied permission to cross the border despite holding valid travel documents. Saurabh Tapandar Cheli, one of the devotees, expressed frustration, stating, “We came to participate in a religious ceremony taking place in India but immigration officials stopped us, citing the absence of government permission.”

Authorities cite lack of ‘specific government permission’

Imtiaz Ahsanul Quader Bhuiyan, Officer-in-Charge of the Benapole Immigration Police, explained that the devotees lacked specific government approval required for their travel. He noted, “We consulted the special police branch and received instructions from the higher authorities not to permit them (to cross the border).” Bhuiyan emphasized that without such approval, the devotees could not proceed.

Arrest of ISKCON leader, subsequent unrest

This incident occurs amid heightened scrutiny of ISKCON in Bangladesh, following the arrest of Hindu leader Chinmoy Krishna Das on sedition charges. Das was accused of disrespecting the Bangladeshi national flag during a rally in Chittagong, organized to protest the alleged persecution of Hindu minorities. His arrest led to widespread protests and calls for his release.

Additional arrests and legal developments

On November 29, two more ISKCON monks, Shyam Das Prabhu and Ranganath Das Brahmachari, were arrested after visiting Chinmoy Krishna Das. The situation further escalated with the death of Assistant Government Prosecutor Saiful Islam Alif during clashes between police and Das’s supporters in Chattogram. In response to the unrest, the Muhammad Yunus-led government withdrew a case against ISKCON, with the High Court stating that there was no need for intervention as appropriate steps had been taken.

Ongoing diplomatic tensions

Despite valid documentation, the refusal to allow ISKCON members to cross into India adds to the growing diplomatic strain between the two nations. The situation underscores the complex interplay of religious freedom, legal authority, and international relations in the region.

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