Prof. Jasim Mohammad Condemns Hate Speech Targeting ISKCON and Welcomes Vikram Misri’s Constructive Dialogue on Minority Protection in Bangladesh

New Delhi, Dec 10, 2024: Prof. Jasim Mohammad, Secretary General of Forum for Muslim Studies and Analysis India, has strongly condemned the hate speech targeting ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) in Bangladesh, urging immediate action by the Bangladeshi government. The inflammatory speech, which has sparked outrage worldwide, includes chilling threats such as, “ISKCON must be banned; otherwise, we will cut them down with our swords. This is not the time for religious practice but the time to fight ISKCON. Kill them one by one. If the government does not ban ISKCON, we will destroy them ourselves.”

In a statement, Prof. Jasim Mohammad expressed his deep concern over this open incitement to violence, describing it as a “blatant attack on religious freedom and human dignity.” He warned that such hate-filled rhetoric, if left unchecked, could lead to large-scale communal violence. “ISKCON is a globally respected organization that promotes peace and spiritual harmony. Targeting its members with such inflammatory language is not only unacceptable but also a grave threat to the pluralistic fabric of Bangladesh,” he said.

Prof. Jasim Mohammad called on the Bangladeshi government to act swiftly. “The individuals responsible for this hate speech must be identified and arrested immediately. Legal action against them is essential to send a strong message that such incitement will not be tolerated,” he said.

He also urged the authorities to ensure the safety of ISKCON members and all religious minorities in the country, advocating for public condemnation of these threats by the government.
“Clear and unequivocal condemnation of this hate speech from the highest levels of the Bangladeshi government will reaffirm the nation’s commitment to religious freedom and coexistence,” he added.

In the context of these developments, Prof. Jasim Mohammad welcomed the recent visit of Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri to Bangladesh, emphasizing its importance in addressing minority safety and fostering stronger bilateral ties. “Foreign Secretary Shri Vikrim Misri’s visit is timely and significant as it highlights India’s deep concern for the welfare of minorities in Bangladesh and sets a constructive tone for addressing these pressing issues,” he said.

Prof. Jasim appreciated Misri’s emphasis on a constructive approach to tackling the attacks on minority communities, particularly Hindus. “Such issues cannot be dismissed as internal matters. They require collaborative efforts to protect human dignity and preserve regional harmony,” he remarked.

He further supported Misri’s discussions on legal transparency, including the recent arrest of a Hindu monk in Bangladesh, calling it a litmus test for the country’s commitment to justice and religious tolerance. “Ensuring a fair and transparent process in such cases will reflect Bangladesh’s resolve to uphold human rights,” he added.

Prof. Jasim Mohammad reiterated the importance of prioritizing minority safety and religious freedom in Bangladesh, asserting, “Bangladesh has a proud history of diversity and inclusivity. Allowing hate speech and violence to fester undermines this legacy and threatens its global reputation.”

He concluded by urging both nations to strengthen their commitment to peace, inclusivity, and shared progress through constructive dialogue and people-centric policies.