In the aftermath of last year’s student-led revolution in Bangladesh, a harrowing report emerged revealing that at least a dozen detainees have perished under distressing circumstances. Odhikar, a prominent human rights organisation, disclosed that these deaths resulted from both torture and gunshot wounds, igniting calls for justice from the interim government that stepped in following the overthrow of Sheikh Hasina’s regime.
ASM Nasiruddin Elan, Odhikar’s director, emphasised the urgency for accountability, stating, “The interim government should not let these crimes go unpunished.” His sentiments reflect a broader demand for action against those implicated in extrajudicial killings, indicating a persistent cycle of human rights violations that continues to plague the nation.
The report detailed chilling allegations against security forces, which are accused of carrying out brutal killings to sustain Hasina’s autocratic rule. According to the United Nations, the revolution triggered a deadly uprising that left over 1,400 individuals dead, with Hasina herself now evading an arrest warrant for her alleged crimes against humanity.
Following her flight to exile in India, security forces have ramped up arrests of her Aweami League supporters and declared opponents of her now-defunct government. Odhikar highlighted that between August 9 and December 31, 2024, twelve deaths occurred, primarily linked to various security units including the notorious Rapid Action Battalion (RAB).
Yet, despite the despair, Odhikar remains steadfast in its quest for justice. Elan passionately stated, “Even the friends of the fascist regime have a right to justice,” underscoring the belief that extrajudicial killings must be thwarted at all costs. Three of the deceased were reportedly in police custody, while others were controlled by armed forces or paramilitary units.
Among the tragic losses was the case of 18-year-old Elahi Sikdar, whose lifeless body was discovered in a hospital after his arrest for allegedly attacking soldiers. His brother, Kudrat Sikdar, voiced the painful acceptance of their fate, stating, “We have accepted his death as destiny.” This encapsulates the broader sentiment of countless families impacted by the violence.
In response to Odhikar’s alarming report, a police spokesperson asserted that officers had been instructed to exercise restraint and stay within legal boundaries. Reports noted the military now wields similar powers to police, raising concerns about the potential for unlawful conduct in enforcement scenarios. Army chief Waker-Uz-Zaman expressed his fears, noting that increased military presence could lead to escalated violations.
A report by Odhikar reveals at least a dozen detainees died in Bangladesh following the disenfranchisement of Sheikh Hasina, with causes including torture and gunshot wounds. Calls for justice are mounting against the interim government, whilst human rights abuses by security forces continue. Prominent cases, like that of Elahi Sikdar, highlight the tragic impact on families, as Odhikar demands an end to extrajudicial killings.
In conclusion, the report from Odhikar paints a sobering picture of the state of human rights in Bangladesh post-revolution. With numerous deaths attributed to security forces, the call for accountability and justice grows louder. The complex interplay of power, fear, and suffering resonates throughout the fabric of society, as the interim government faces mounting pressure to address these egregious violations.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
