Bangladesh’s Interim Government Under Fire: 8 Extrajudicial Killings in 52 Days

The recent rise to power of Bangladesh's interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has brought increased scrutiny due to allegations of human rights violations. According to Odhikar, a prominent Bangladeshi human rights organization, at least eight extrajudicial killings were reported between August 9 and September 30, 2024. This comes amid a backdrop of escalating political violence and unrest.

Alarming Reports of Killings and Torture

Odhikar’s July-September human rights report sheds light on these killings, attributing the deaths to various state forces:

One person reportedly died due to police torture.

Another succumbed to alleged torture by the Department of Narcotics Control.

Three individuals were allegedly tortured to death by joint forces.

Three others were reportedly shot dead by the same forces.

These incidents highlight serious concerns over the interim government’s handling of law enforcement and public safety.

Rising Political Violence

The report also documented a surge in political violence:

Between August 9 and September 30, 52 people were killed, and 1,308 injured in clashes.

The period saw 31 lynchings, adding to a total of 67 between July and September.

While no cases of enforced disappearances were reported during this period, the scale of violence has drawn international attention.

Student-Led Uprising and Its Aftermath

The political turmoil follows a massive student-led uprising from July 1 to August 5, during which 1,581 people were killed, and over 18,000 injured. The movement, rooted in demands for equity and accountability, led to the eventual appointment of the interim government.

Press Freedom Under Threat

Journalists also faced significant challenges during this turbulent time:

Four journalists were injured, two assaulted, and three threatened.

Legal cases were filed against three journalists while they were performing their duties.

These statistics underscore the increasing risks faced by the media in documenting these critical events.

What Lies Ahead?

As Bangladesh navigates this fraught political transition, the international community and human rights organizations are closely monitoring the situation. The interim government, tasked with bringing stability, must address these allegations to restore public trust and uphold democratic principles.

The reported extrajudicial killings and political violence raise urgent questions about accountability and the rule of law in Bangladesh during this critical period.

Reference from:- https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/south-asia/8-extrajudicial-killings-in-first-52-days-of-bangladesh-interim-government/articleshow/115374341.cms