Human Rights Watch (HRW), an influential international entity dedicated to human rights, has urged Bangladesh’s interim government to maintain the impartiality of its security forces and uphold the rule of law amid rising political violence. Following the removal of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s administration in August 2024, HRW referenced a United Nations report that sheds light on egregious violations committed by law enforcement, including extrajudicial killings and mass arrests.
In their statement, HRW detailed that law enforcement, comprising police, border guards, and the Rapid Action Battalion, resorted to serious human rights abuses in a bid to suppress protests triggered by the political upheaval. Despite proclamations of reform by the interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, the recent crackdown named “Operation Devil Hunt” has resulted in the apprehension of nearly 2,000 individuals, predominantly supporters of the former regime.
Meenakshi Ganguly, HRW’s deputy Asia director, stated that the ongoing political division following decades of Awami League’s repression necessitates that authorities exercise impartiality rather than repeating past errors. She highlighted the urgency of implementing comprehensive reforms in political governance for the interim administration. The UN report revealed shocking statistics: up to 1,400 people killed in mere weeks due to law enforcement actions during the unrest.
Violent protests erupted after Hasina indicated she would address her supporters while in exile, culminating in significant unrest including attacks on her family’s properties. This turmoil escalated with a clash on February 8, leading to the launch of Operation Devil Hunt, aimed at targeting supposed affiliations with the former regime while casting opponents as ‘devils.’
The interim leadership has publicly rebuked Hasina for allegedly igniting violence and has sought her extradition from India. Yunus has called for law and order, emphasising that respect for legal norms distinguishes the new administration from the previous oppressive regime. However, HRW insists on recognising the fundamental right to peaceful protest, urging adherence to international law that favours the protection of such civil liberties.
To secure order, the Yunus government is encouraged to pursue a consensus at the upcoming UN Human Rights Council session for additional technical assistance and monitoring. Furthermore, acknowledging the previous administration’s tyranny while recognising the interim government’s human rights strides is critical moving forward. Ganguly succinctly conveyed the public sentiment for justice and accountability, reminding that characterising opponents as ‘devils’ can exacerbate abuses by unaccountable forces.
Human Rights Watch has called on Bangladesh’s interim government to ensure law enforcement acts impartially amidst political turmoil. Following the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, reports of human rights violations by security forces have emerged, including extrajudicial killings and mass arrests. Meenakshi Ganguly emphasises the need for a rights-respecting approach that recognises the right to peaceful protest, while urging the government to consider reforms during upcoming UN sessions.
In summary, Human Rights Watch’s appeals highlight the critical need for the interim government of Bangladesh to act impartially and uphold the rule of law amidst charged political tensions. As the shadow of authoritarianism lingers, it is paramount that the authorities reform practices that lead to severe human rights violations, fostering a climate where justice prevails and civil rights are respected. The road ahead requires careful navigation to ensure that past mistakes do not disrupt the pursuit of national healing and reform.
Original Source: www.indianarrative.com
