More than 80 people, including at least 13 police personnel, are reported to have been killed in clashes between security forces and protesters in Bangladesh, according to media reports. The violence has escalated to the point where authorities have imposed a curfew and restricted internet access in certain areas.
The unrest began in Sirajganj district, located approximately 100 kilometers northwest of the capital city of Dhaka, where a police station was attacked. This incident is just the latest in a series of violent clashes that have rocked the country in recent months.
The current wave of violence follows massive protests in July led by students demanding an end to a “quota system” for government jobs, which has contributed to rising unemployment. During these protests, over 200 people were reportedly killed, sparking outrage and further fueling the ongoing unrest.
Tragically, at least 32 children were among those killed last month, highlighting the toll that the violence has taken on innocent civilians. The situation has only worsened as tensions continue to rise and clashes between protesters and security forces intensify.
In response to the escalating violence, a mass march on Dhaka is planned for Monday, raising concerns about the potential for further loss of life and destruction. Volker Türk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, has expressed deep concern about the situation, calling on both political leaders and security forces to protect the rights of peaceful assembly and expression.
“I am deeply worried that there will be further loss of life and wider destruction. I appeal urgently to the political leadership and to the security forces to abide by their obligations to protect the right to life, and the freedom of peaceful assembly and expression,” Türk stated in a recent statement.
He emphasized the importance of accountability for human rights violations, including holding those in positions of authority responsible for their actions. The international community must send a clear message that there will be no impunity for those who commit human rights abuses during this critical time in Bangladesh.
Türk also called on the government to stop targeting peaceful protesters and release those who have been arbitrarily detained. He urged for the restoration of full internet access and the creation of conditions conducive to meaningful dialogue to address the underlying issues fueling the unrest.
“The continuing effort to suppress popular discontent, including through the excessive use of force, and the deliberate spread of misinformation and incitement to violence, must immediately cease,” Türk emphasized.
The situation in Bangladesh remains volatile as the clashes between protesters and security forces show no signs of abating. The loss of life and escalating violence underscore the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the crisis and a commitment to upholding human rights and democratic principles.
As the international community monitors the situation closely, there is a collective call for all parties involved to exercise restraint, respect human rights, and engage in constructive dialogue to address the grievances of the protesters. Only through a peaceful and inclusive approach can Bangladesh begin to heal and move towards a more stable and prosperous future for all its citizens.
