By CAP Liberté de Conscience August 2024
A fresh analysis by the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has revealed instances of human rights infringements carried out by Bangladeshi security forces in response to the protests. The report, offering an overview of the situation in Bangladesh from mid June to August 2024 highlights various violations such as excessive use of force extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests and detentions torture and mistreatment and significant restrictions on freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
The demonstrations initially sparked off due to the reinstatement of a quota system that reserves 30% of civil service positions for descendants of veterans from Bangladeshs 1971 independence war. What started as peaceful student protests soon turned violent as the government resorted to tactics to suppress the unrest. As, per the OHCHR report it is estimated that hundreds have lost their lives including at 32 children with thousands sustaining injuries.The report mentions that security forces have been using force extensively without discrimination, against both demonstrations and those that involve violence. They have employed weapons such as rubber bullets, sound grenades and firearms loaded with ammunition like birdshot pellets and bullets. Despite some protesters being seen carrying sticks or makeshift weapons the security forces consistent use of firearms such as pellet shotguns, handguns and rifles seems to be excessive and disproportionate.
The report highlights incidents captured on video footage. For example it describes the killing of student activist Abu Sayed Sayed, who was standing with his arms outstretched holding a stick when he was shot in the chest by the police. In another video clip a young man trying to help an injured protester is forced to run as an undercover officer shoots in their direction.
According to the report the excessive and disproportionate use of force by law enforcement against protesters would go against Bangladeshs commitments to protect the right to life and physical well being in line with human rights standards. The report makes reference to the UN Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms, by Law Enforcement Officials.
The OHCHR report not highlights the use of force but also details numerous arbitrary arrests and detentions where thousands of protesters and opposition members were reportedly taken into custody. Many detainees were deprived of representation. Their families were kept in the dark about their whereabouts. Furthermore there are reports of torture and mistreatment of those held.
According to the report some of the arrested individuals faced mistreatment and even torture while, in police custody. The Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT) which Bangladesh has ratified explicitly prohibits acts under any circumstances.
In response to the protests the government implemented a shutdown of internet and mobile communications severely limiting information flow and hindering protesters ability to coordinate. These actions are noted in the report as violating Bangladeshs human rights obligations under the International Covenant on Political Rights which safeguards freedom of expression.
The unrest and subsequent crackdown significantly impacted the population by disrupting access to services, through prolonged curfews and movement restrictions that worsened the countrys economic challenges.
Hospitals faced a surge of injured protesters leading to closures of schools and universities.
Amid escalating violence the Bangladeshi government stepped down on August 5 2024 paving the way for a civilian led government. However the transition has been marred by instability with reports of looting, arson, attacks, on minorities and reprisals against former ruling party members.
The OHCHR report offers recommendations to the government and the global community to tackle the human rights crisis. These suggestions include;
Restoring order and rule of law through a process guided by human rights
Issuing clear directives to law enforcement to minimize force in accordance with international standards and avoiding deploying Border Guards and Rapid Action Battalions known for abuse
Ensuring timely access to medical care for all those injured
Initiating a thorough independent investigation into severe injuries, fatalities or firearm use, by security forces
Encouraging open discussions to address underlying social, economic and political grievances that fueled protests
Safeguarding media freedom and information access
The report also urges the community to assist Bangladesh in ensuring a transition that prioritizes rights along, with providing support for fact finding and accountability efforts.
In a press release on August 4 2024 UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk called on the government to conduct a fair and transparent investigation into all reported human rights violations and acts of violence since July. The aim is to provide justice for victims hold those accountable responsible and establish measures to prevent occurrences.
Türk extended the assistance of OHCHR in this process emphasizing that an independent investigation is crucial for trust.
The report by the High Commissioner highlights concerning actions by Bangladeshi authorities during the protests. Security forces are seen operating without consequences and showing regard for rights and legal principles. As Bangladesh enters a phase of transition, immediate and resolute actions are necessary from both the government and the international community to address these ongoing abuses systematically and pave the way, towards a fairer and more democratic future.
