The Bangladesh High Court has refused to issue a suo motu order to ban the activities of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), following a petition citing recent incidents linked to the organization. Supreme Court lawyer Md Monir Uddin had presented newspaper reports to the court, requesting the imposition of Section 144 in Chattogram, Rangpur, and Dinajpur, along with a ban on ISKCON’s operations. However, the court concluded on Thursday that government authorities had already taken necessary measures, as informed by the attorney general’s office.

The High Court bench, comprising Justice Farah Mahbub and Justice Debasish Roy Chowdhury, reviewed updates provided by Additional Attorney General Aneek R Haque and Deputy Attorney General Md Asad Uddin. The court was informed that three cases had been filed in connection with the murder of lawyer Saiful Islam Alif and allegations surrounding ISKCON’s activities. Authorities reported the arrest of 33 individuals linked to these cases. While declining to pass a suo motu order, the bench stressed the need for the government to safeguard law and order and protect the lives and property of citizens.

The petition stemmed from tensions following a spate of allegations against ISKCON, with some sections accusing the organization of creating unrest. In response, the court reiterated the importance of addressing these concerns judiciously and ensuring accountability for any misconduct. Observers view this case as a significant moment in balancing religious freedom with public safety in Bangladesh.