The United Nations has warned that a crackdown on protesters in Bangladesh may amount to a “crime against humanity”. The warning comes as investigators found evidence of systematic and deadly violence against mass opposition, resulting in the deaths of up to 1,400 people. Former prime minister Sheikh Hasina and her government are accused of directing this brutal response.
The UN human rights chief Volker Türk said there were reasonable grounds to believe that officials involved in the former government committed serious human rights violations, including shootings, torture, and arbitrary arrests. Children were also targeted, with up to 13% of the deaths attributed to them.
The report, requested by Bangladesh’s caretaker leader Muhammad Yunus, paints a picture of rampant state violence and targeted killings. It attributes most of the violence to government security forces but also raises concerns about attacks on those perceived to be supporters of the former government and against some religious and ethnic groups.
Sheikh Hasina has denied ordering the killing of protest leaders, calling the report’s findings “preposterous”. However, the UN is urging Bangladesh to investigate these claims. The case highlights the need for accountability in suppressing mass opposition and protecting human rights.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cnvqle40183o