The UN human rights chief, Volker Türk, revealed that a devastating wave of repression during protests in Bangladesh last year resulted in over 1,400 deaths within just 46 days, primarily due to security forces’ gunfire. The OHCHR report highlighted the grim reality, noting thousands of injuries, including severe cases of violence against protest participants, with one young individual shot for merely tossing stones.
The report indicated that serious human rights violations were perpetrated by government officials, security personnel, and affiliates of the Awami League party. Türk emphasized that under these circumstances, many of the described atrocities might equate to international crimes, which could be investigated by the International Criminal Court (ICC) due to Bangladesh’s status as a Rome Statute signatory.
Protests erupted against a controversial reinstatement of a quota system in public service jobs, addressing deeper issues of corrupt politics and systemic inequality in the country. The brutal crackdown, which left a staggering number of children among the deceased, reflected a calculated strategy by the previous government to maintain control amidst public dissent.
Türk recounted his visit to hospitals, where he witnessed the harrowing aftermath of the violence, noting the permanent disabilities suffered by survivors, especially children. He asserted that these attacks were not just random acts of aggression but orchestrated efforts to suppress dissent.
The investigative mission launched by the UN human rights office in September 2024 sought to uncover the realities behind the protests, using a diverse team of experts and gathering over 900 witness testimonies from critical protest locations. These efforts aim to shed light on the extent of violence and hold accountable those responsible for heinous acts against humanity.
A UN report has revealed that protests in Bangladesh leading to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s downfall resulted in over 1,400 deaths, largely from security forces. The investigation flagged these actions as potential international crimes, necessitating accountability. The uprising was fueled by wider grievances over corruption and governance, highlighting a dire need for reforms and responsibility for the brutal crackdown on dissent.
The Bangladesh protests of last year highlighted extreme state violence as officials sought to crush dissent, resulting in significant casualties and human rights violations. This comprehensive investigation reflects a pressing need for accountability and justice, as the UN urges recognition of the systematic violence endured by citizens during this tumultuous period. The path ahead for Bangladesh calls for healing and a restoration of faith in governance.
Original Source: news.un.org
