January 2, 2025: A Chattogram court in Bangladesh has rejected the bail plea of Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, a former ISKCON monk, prolonging his detention that has already lasted over a month. The decision came during a hearing held under tight security, with Judge Md Saiful Islam of the Chattogram Metropolitan Sessions Court presiding.

The hearing, lasting approximately 30 minutes, saw arguments presented by both sides. Despite the efforts of an 11-member legal team, which included prominent Supreme Court lawyers, the court upheld its decision to deny bail, according to The Daily Star.

Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari has been in custody since early December 2024. The case has drawn significant public attention, especially among legal and religious communities. Lawyer Apurba Kumar Bhattacharjee, who represented Chinmoy under the banner of Ainjibi Oikya Parishad, expressed determination to continue the legal battle. Speaking to The Daily Star, Bhattacharjee stated, “I already got the Vakalatnama from Chinmoy. As a member of both the Supreme Court and Chattogram Bar Associations, I don’t require additional authorization to move the case.”

On December 3, 2024, the Chattogram court had scheduled the January 2 bail hearing following a prosecution request for additional time. At that time, Chinmoy Krishna Das had no legal representation, further complicating his case.

The reasons behind the monk’s prolonged detention and the allegations against him remain contentious, with supporters calling for his immediate release and due process. Meanwhile, religious and legal organizations continue to monitor the case closely, signaling its potential implications for religious freedom and judicial practices in Bangladesh.

Chinmoy Krishna Das’s advocates plan to pursue further legal avenues to secure his release.