According to Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan, assistant to the Ministry of Youth and Sports and Local Government, Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, the Hindu community leader and former head of ISKCON in Bangladesh, was arrested on sedition charges rather than as a community leader.

He said this at a gathering on Tuesday at Chawla Union in Rangpur’s Pirgacha Upazila, where the impoverished were given winter clothing.

Asif Mahmud said: “The government will take strict action against any act of sedition that threatens Bangladesh’s sovereignty and independence. We want to make it clear that anyone involved in such acts, regardless of their status or leadership position, will not be spared.”

He emphasized that law enforcement actions are taken based on national security, not community considerations.

Addressing regional disparities, the adviser said: “Previously, development was concentrated in areas associated with prime ministers or ministers. We aim to eliminate such inequities and ensure balanced development across the country.”

During the event, around 600 winter garments and blankets were distributed to underprivileged families.

Afterwards, the adviser visited the Panialen Ghat area in Rangpur’s Pirgacha and Kurigram’s Ulipur to inspect the proposed site for a bridge over the Teesta River.