UN calls for end to violence in Bangladesh protests
A student carrying Bangladesh national flag takes part in a protest march as protesters demand justice for victims arrested and killed in the recent nationwide violence over job quotas, in Dhaka on August 3, 2024. (AFP Photo)
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, has called for an end to the “shocking violence” occurring in Bangladesh’s anti-government protests.
These demonstrations were sparked by a decision to allocate public sector quotas for families of those who participated in the country’s Independence War.
The death toll from the violent protests has risen to 93, with Turk highlighting the severity of the situation in a written statement. He noted that over the weekend, a large number of protesters were killed, and at least 13 police officers lost their lives in an attack on a police station in Sirajganj.
Concerns over further violence
A massive march is planned in Dhaka, and the ruling party’s youth wing is reportedly mobilizing against the protesters. Turk expressed deep concern about the potential further loss of life and widespread destruction. He urged political leaders and security forces to uphold their obligations to protect the right to life, peaceful assembly, and freedom of expression.
Emphasizing the importance of accountability for human rights violations, Turk called on the international community to clearly state that impunity will not be tolerated during this critical time.
Turk demanded that the Bangladeshi government stop targeting peaceful protesters, immediately release those arbitrarily detained, ensure full internet access, and create conditions for meaningful dialogue.
The U.N. Human Rights Chief condemned the ongoing efforts to suppress public dissent through excessive force, deliberate misinformation, and incitement to violence.
He stressed that these actions must cease immediately.
Background of protests
The protests began following a decision to reserve public sector quotas for the children of those who served in the 1971 Independence War. The Bangladeshi Interior Minister, Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, reported that 147 people had died in the protests, though media reports suggest the death toll exceeds 200.
In July, around 2,000 people gathered at various points in Dhaka to mourn those killed in the protests, with police surrounding demonstrators chanting anti-government slogans.
Clashes between students and security forces, including the use of tear gas and stun grenades, have resulted in further casualties and injuries.
