The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) has expressed deep concern over reports that the Bangladesh High Court is considering a writ petition seeking to ban the organization, allegedly labeling it as a "fundamentalist religious organization."

In a statement, ISKCON described the motion as "deeply troubling," emphasizing its long-standing reputation as a respected and inclusive global religious tradition. 

The organization underscored its contributions to Bangladesh's society over the past 50 years, including operating orphanages, old-age homes, and free medical camps, as well as providing humanitarian aid during natural disasters such as floods. ISKCON highlighted that its services have been offered to people of all religions and ethnicities in the country.

Regional ISKCON leaders are reportedly engaging with Bangladeshi government representatives to address the petition and related concerns. The organization reiterated that its members have always been law-abiding citizens and active contributors to the welfare of society.

The petition follows recent controversies surrounding ISKCON's activities in Bangladesh, including rallies and clashes in Chattogram, which have raised tensions in the region. 

A legal notice filed on Monday by Supreme Court lawyer Al Mamun Russell and 10 other legal professionals accuses the ISKCON of being a "radical organization" that threatens national security and provokes communal unrest, the Dhaka Tribune reported.

The notice, sent to the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Ministry of Law and Justice, and the Inspector General of Police on Wednesday, calls for action against ISKCON and demands prosecution of individuals allegedly responsible for the murder of government legal officer Advocate Saiful Islam during recent protests.

The petition alleges that ISKCON incites sectarian violence, promotes religious intolerance, and forcibly recruits members to impose its beliefs on traditional Hindu communities. The petition claims that ISKCON's actions have "destabilized" the country and harmed Bangladesh's social and political fabric.

Arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das

The legal notice came amid tensions following the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, a former ISKCON Bangladesh priest, on sedition charges. His arrest has led to widespread protests and unrest, with allegations linking ISKCON to the murder of Advocate Saiful Islam during the demonstrations.

The petition accuses ISKCON of showing a "blatant disregard for law and order" and blames the organization for the unrest sparked by Das’ arrest.

Reacting to the legal notice, Mrityunjay Kumar Roy, General Secretary of the Bangladesh National Hindu Grand Alliance, strongly defended ISKCON, describing it as a peaceful organization dedicated to the teachings of Sri Krishna and the welfare of the poor.

"We strongly oppose the statements of those calling for a ban on ISKCON. ISKCON is the international consciousness of Sri Krishna...a peaceful organization that works for the welfare of all," Roy said.