Exclusive: Chinmoy Das's lawyer says "He will get bail I am confident"

UPDATED: Jan 2, 2025 21:06 IST

In an exclusive interview with India Today Global, Apurba Kumar Bhattacharjee, the lawyer representing prominent Hindu monk and activist Chinmoy Krishna Das, expressed confidence in his client’s eventual release despite the recent rejection of his bail plea by a Bangladeshi court. Das, who was arrested on November 25, 2024, has become a symbol of the broader struggle for minority rights in Bangladesh.

On January 2, 2025, the Chattogram court denied Das’ bail plea following a 30-minute hearing. Bhattacharjee, who leads a team of 11 lawyers advocating for Das, remained optimistic about the next steps.

“We are confident that the Hindu monk will get bail,” said Bhattacharjee. “The charges against Chinmoy Krishna Das are baseless and fabricated. We will appeal to the High Court as soon as we receive the stamped copy from this court.”

The charges stem from an alleged incident during a rally on October 25, 2024, where a saffron flag was reportedly displayed above the national flag of Bangladesh. Das and 18 others were accused of disrespecting the national symbol, a charge that has sparked significant controversy and public debate.

Das, associated with the Bangladesh Sammilita Sanatani Jagran Jote, has long advocated for the rights of religious minorities in Bangladesh. His calls for a minority protection law, a dedicated tribunal to expedite cases of minority persecution, and a ministry for minority affairs have earned him widespread support but also placed him in the crosshairs of political and legal disputes.

Despite the legal hurdles, Bhattacharjee reiterated his confidence in the judicial process. “Yes, Chinmoy Krishna Das is a minority, but we are confident that he will get bail,” he said.

While Bhattacharjee refrained from commenting on external political dynamics or the stance of Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, his remarks underscored a focus on the immediate legal battle.

As Das’s legal team prepares to take the case to the High Court, his supporters and the international community continue to monitor the developments closely. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for minority rights and religious freedom in Bangladesh, making it a pivotal moment for the nation’s legal and social landscape.

For continued coverage of Chinmoy Krishna Das’s case and other stories on minority rights, stay tuned to India Today Global.