Clashes Erupt in Bangladesh After Controversial Facebook Post on ISKCON

Dhaka: Tensions flared in Chittagong, Bangladesh, when a controversial Facebook post criticizing the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) led to clashes between the Hindu community and law enforcement. The unrest prompted a joint operation by police and army forces on Tuesday night to restore order.

The conflict was triggered by a Facebook post from a Muslim youth, Osman, who called for the banning of ISKCON. This sparked protests from the Hindu community, which soon escalated into violent clashes. Protestors threw bricks and other objects at the police. In response, joint law enforcement teams were deployed to manage the situation.

Local community leaders reported that the protests intensified when acid was allegedly thrown at officers. The operation by the security forces focused on the Hazari Goly area, where about 100 people were arrested. Some of those detained were later released after questioning. However, power outages during the operation made it difficult to obtain full details about the incident.

Reports also suggested that blank shots were fired during the security operation to control the crowd.

This incident comes amid increasing calls to ban ISKCON in Bangladesh. Recently, a group called "Inqilab Manch" demanded the organization's ban. In response, ISKCON leaders in Dhaka sought an apology from Mahmudur Rahman, the editor of "Amar Desh," who also called for the ban.

Hindus, who make up around 8% of Bangladesh’s population, have historically supported the Awami League, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. However, the government has faced criticism and unrest in recent months, including violent clashes with anti-quota protesters that resulted in over 600 deaths.

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