Dhaka’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) police have arrested Haridas Chandra Tarani Das, the creator of the widely discussed Ram statue in Palashbari, Gaibandha. The arrest took place last night during a special operation by a CID team from Dhaka. Palashbari Police Station Officer-in-Charge Sarowar Alam Khan confirmed the arrest to local media.

Haridas, founder of the Ram Temple at the Sri Sri Radha Govinda and Kali Temple complex, had drawn nationwide attention for constructing what was described as the largest Ram statue in Bangladesh. The project sparked widespread criticism and protests, particularly among the Muslim-majority population, who viewed the large-scale statue construction with suspicion. Demonstrations demanding his arrest and the removal of the statue had been ongoing across the country for several months.

The controversy surrounding the statue also triggered debate in both Bangladesh and India, with many citing concerns over religious sensitivity and political stability.