On July 15, 2024, students of Dhaka University were engaged in a peaceful protest demanding reforms in the quota allocation for government jobs in Bangladesh. They were suddenly attacked by individuals armed with rods, sticks, and clubs, some even carrying revolvers. Soon, similar attacks were reported across the country, believed to be coordinated by members of the Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL), a group associated with the ruling Awami League (AL), targeting student protesters.
By the afternoon of July 16, police resorted to firing tear gas and charging with batons at protesters in front of Begum Rokeya University in the city of Rangpur. The protest was led by Abu Sayed, the protest coordinator among others.
Abu Sayed’s Tragic End
Abu Sayed, a student at Begum Rokeya University, defiantly faced the police as they approached. In a deliberate and unwarranted attack, the police fired directly at his chest.
At a distance of only 15 meters, at least two police officers shot directly towards him using 12-gauge shotguns. Sayed was hit in the chest and as he clutched the impact, the officers fired at least two more times using birdshot ammunition, which is highly dangerous and inaccurate, making it unlawful for use in protests.
Sayed, who posed no physical threat, was declared dead upon arrival at the hospital. He was only 25 years old.
The video of Sayed’s killing sparked outrage and served as a symbol of the violence faced by protesters in Bangladesh since July 15.
Fate of the Protesters
As of July 18, 32 deaths were reported due to the authorities’ continued attacks on the protesters. The death toll peaked at 75 on July 19. Despite the government proposing a discussion, the protesters rejected it due to the rising fatalities.
Not just protesters, but journalists and bystanders were also subjected to violence and killings during the crackdown. The country went offline with a communication blackout imposed by the government, leaving the world unaware of the situation. Following this, security forces were deployed across the country with a “shoot at sight” curfew put in place.
After five days, internet restrictions were eased, but the toll had reached over 200 deaths and thousands injured. Reports also indicated arbitrary arrests of over 2,500 people and 61,000 protesters facing accusations.
Reasons for the Protests
Students are protesting the reinstatement of a 30 percent job quota for children of independence war veterans, which they claim favors the ruling party’s supporters. The quota was canceled in 2018 after massive student protests, but it was reinstated by the High Court in June following a petition by war veterans’ relatives.
Amid curfews and internet shutdowns, the Supreme Court, on July 21, ordered the quota to be reduced to 5 percent. The protests continue, demanding justice and accountability for the casualties and arrests during the recent weeks.
Human Rights Violations During the Protests
The authorities resorted to using lethal weapons illegally against protesters, resulting in numerous deaths. Security forces, including RAB, BGB, and police, used lethal and less-lethal weapons along with tear gas against protesters. Arbitrary arrests, violence against activists and journalists, and a ban on protests further violated human rights.
Internet shutdowns impacted safety, security, and livelihoods, creating panic and instability. The incidents of violence during the protests show a blatant disregard for human rights and failure to uphold legal obligations.
Call for Action
The actions of Bangladeshi authorities reflect serious human rights violations conducted with impunity. It is crucial for the authorities to cease repressive measures aimed at crushing dissent and protests. The global Bangladeshi diaspora has demanded an end to the repression and excessive use of force.
Peaceful protests have historically played a pivotal role in securing rights and freedoms. It is imperative for people worldwide to stand in solidarity to protect the right to protest amidst escalating repressive practices and abuses by authorities.