The UN rights chief urged Bangladesh on Thursday to promptly reveal the specifics of the recent crackdown on protests, which has been marked by reports of "horrific violence", and to initiate "an impartial, independent and transparent investigation". "We acknowledge that numerous individuals were brutally assaulted by groups allegedly linked to the Government, with no attempts made to safeguard them," Volker Turk stated.
The recent unrest, which claimed at least 193 lives including several police officers according to an AFP tally based on police and hospital reports, marks one of the most significant disruptions during Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's 15-year rule. The turmoil was ignited by protests against a public jobs quota system, criticized for favoring allies of Hasina's ruling party. Despite thousands of troops continuing to patrol urban areas and a nationwide internet blackout largely persisting, confrontations have lessened since protest leaders suspended new demonstrations.
Turk's statement expressed concern over reports that some of the over 1,000 injured during the crackdown were refused medical treatment, and many individuals remain unaccounted for. "At least two journalists were allegedly killed and numerous others injured. Hundreds of individuals were also reportedly detained, including opposition members," the statement detailed. The government was urged to "provide the specifics of those killed, injured, or detained to aid their families".
The UN high commissioner for human rights additionally called on the government to reinstate full internet access to enable free communication for all, including journalists. "Drastic measures such as a prolonged, deliberate internet shutdown violate international law, impacting States' commitments to uphold freedom of expression and the right to peaceful assembly," he noted. This also infringes upon "a broad spectrum of other rights, encompassing freedom of association and movement, the rights to health and education, and various economic rights," Turk added. "Internet shutdowns can diminish public oversight and awareness of law enforcement conduct, thereby increasing the risk of impunity for their actions," he cautioned.
