November 28, 2024: The Dhaka High Court on Thursday rejected a request to issue a suo motu order to ban the activities of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in Bangladesh, following a controversy involving the arrest of a priest.

The petition, filed by Supreme Court lawyer Md Monir Uddin, sought a court-imposed ban on ISKCON's operations, citing reports of the group's activities in the country. Uddin also requested the imposition of Section 144—prohibiting public gatherings—in the cities of Chattogram, Rangpur, and Dinajpur, where tensions have reportedly risen in recent weeks.

However, in its response, the Dhaka High Court was informed by the Attorney General’s office that the government had already taken necessary legal steps in relation to the ongoing issues. According to the court, three cases have been filed in connection with the murder of lawyer Saiful Islam Alif and concerns related to ISKCON’s activities. A total of 33 individuals have been arrested in connection with the cases.

The court emphasized the government's responsibility to maintain law and order, ensuring the safety of Bangladesh’s citizens and their property. The bench underscored the need for the state to address the situation and protect public security without resorting to blanket bans on religious organizations.

This decision comes amid growing tensions over the arrest of an ISKCON priest, which sparked protests and raised concerns within the local community. While the court has not taken further action on the request for a ban, the government is expected to continue its efforts to investigate the incidents and resolve the underlying issues.