Amid tensions in Bangladesh, dozens of ISKCON members trying to cross into India were turned back on Sunday by immigration police from the Benapole border crossing. Reportedly, the members were not allowed to cross despite having valid travel documents.
"We consulted the special branch of police and received instructions from the higher authorities not to permit them," said Imtiaz Ahsanul Quader Bhuiyan, officer-in-charge (OC) of the Benapole Immigration Police.
ALSO READ | Another Hindu priest arrested in Bangladesh amid protests, says ISKCON member
The Daily Star newspaper reported that the ISKCON members had valid passports and visas but "lacked specific government permission" for their travel.
"They cannot proceed without such approval," said Bhuiyan.
Around 54 members, including devotees, turned up at the check post on Saturday night and Sunday.
"We came to participate in a religious ceremony taking place in India but immigration officials stopped us, citing the absence of government permission," said Saurabh Tapandar Cheli, one of the ISKCON members.
Widespread clashes erupted in Bangladesh after the arrest of Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das in a sedition case.
A lawyer was killed in the clashes that broke out between protesters and security personnel after bail was denied to Krishna Das. There were demands to ban ISKCON in Bangladesh after the lawyer's death.
The Bangladesh authorities have ordered the freezing of the bank accounts of 17 ISKCON members, including Krishna Das for 30 days.
After Krishna Das's arrest, ISKCON members have claimed the arrest of two more of its priests. Reportedly, the priests had gone to visit Krishna Das in jail when they were arrested.
ISKCON holds prayer meetings
ISKCON on Sunday held prayer meetings for the safety and security of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh.
International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) spokesperson Radharamn Das said that disciples and followers held prayer meetings in 150 countries across the world.
Bangladesh's minority Hindus have faced over 200 attacks in 50-odd districts since the fall of Sheikh Hasina's Awami League government on August 5.
India has expressed concerns over the rising violence against minorities in the country. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) urged the Bangladesh interim government to ensure the protection of all minorities.
