According to reports published in several newspapers in Bangladesh on August 16, 2024, JMBF has learned that over 100 Awami League leaders and activists were hospitalized after being violently assaulted by the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, in the Dhanmondi Road No. 32 area, Dhaka, Bangladesh. These individuals were attacked while trying to honor the memory of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and his family, who were assassinated on this date in 1975.
The victims were allegedly beaten with sticks and pipes by protesters from the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, who aggressively prevented anyone from gathering in front of the house on August 15, 2024. Those attempting to bring flowers or identify themselves as Awami League members were forcibly removed and reportedly beaten.
The Anti-Discrimination Student Movement occupied the area from midnight on August 14, 2024. Hundreds of protesters blocked access to the site early in the morning, carrying sticks and chasing anyone wearing black clothes or badges. They also checked the mobile phones of those they suspected.
National Film Award-winning actress Rokeya Prachi and others were attacked at the Bangabandhu Museum on August 14, 2024, while lighting candles on the eve of August 15. She was severely beaten, and those who tried to protect her were also injured.
Kader Siddique Bir Uttam, president of the Krishak Sramik Janata League, was similarly attacked when he attempted to pay his respects. Stones were thrown at his car, and it was vandalized on August 15.
Media personnel were harassed, barred from recording, and forced to delete photos. Announcements over loudspeakers warned, "Do not take photos or videos. Those inside buildings looking down, do not take out your phones."
JMBF believes these actions, including the forcible removal of individuals and prevention of honoring the nation’s founding father, are blatant assaults on fundamental freedoms guaranteed by both national and international law.
The occupation of Dhanmondi Road No. 32 by the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement and their aggressive behavior towards anyone wearing black clothes, badges, or carrying flowers reflect the oppressive environment fostered under the interim government led by Prof. Mohammad Yunus. This situation raises serious concerns about the state of democracy and the rule of law in Bangladesh.
JMBF contends that the violence orchestrated by the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement represents an alarming escalation of political repression and intolerance. The indiscriminate beating of citizens, harassment of media personnel, and obstruction of peaceful assembly are unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest possible terms.
JMBF demands immediate and thorough investigations into these atrocities. Those responsible must be brought to justice through fair and transparent trials under United Nations supervision to ensure accountability and adherence to international human rights standards. The international community must not turn a blind eye to these atrocities, and urgent intervention is needed to protect the rights and dignity of the Bangladeshi people.
We call upon the interim government in Bangladesh, led by Prof. Mohammad Yunus and his advisers, to uphold the rule of law and ensure the protection of freedom of association, assembly, and privacy as enshrined in international human rights instruments. The government's failure to protect these fundamental rights and its allowance of such violence is a dereliction of its duty to its citizens.
Mr. Robert Simon, Chief Adviser of JMBF, condemned the attacks, stating, "The use of violence to suppress peaceful assembly and freedom of expression is a direct violation of basic human rights. The international community must condemn this violence and support the interim government to hold the perpetrators accountable and ensure justice for the victims."
Advocate Shahanur Islam, Founder President of JMBF, added, "The right to honor national figures and to peacefully assemble is fundamental in any democracy. We demand that the interim government in Bangladesh uphold these rights and prosecute those who have committed these brutal acts to the fullest extent of the law."
JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France stands in solidarity with the victims and their families. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and advocate for justice, accountability, and the protection of human rights in Bangladesh.
Thank you.
Advocate Shahanur Islam
Founder President
JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF)
Email: info@jmbf.org I Website: www.jmbf.org
Cell/Whats Up/ Signal: +33 (0)7 83 95 23 15
============================================================ JMBF is an independent non-profit, nonpartisan human rights organization registered in France with registration number W931027714 under the association law of 1901, dedicated to defending human rights, fighting for justice, and empowering communities in Bangladesh and beyond.
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