Citizens' group condemn ‘unchecked force’ against gatherings, dissenters

They express deep concern over the attack on Gono Odhikar Parishad chief Nur

A group of 46 citizens from Bangladesh’s education, cultural, and human rights sectors have criticised law-enforcing agencies for “using excessive force” against students, political gatherings, and individuals expressing dissent.

The statement, circulated by novelist Salah Uddin Shuvro, included signatories such as poet Kajal Shaahnewaz, Jahangirnagar University Professor Rayhan Rhyne, writer and anthropologist Sayema Khatun, economist Zia Hassan, Chittagong University lecturer GH Habib, Rajshahi University academic A Al Mamun, writer-organiser Nahid Hasan, and filmmaker Ashfaque Nipun, among others.

They have called on troops to adopt a democratic approach to controlling meetings, rallies, and processions.

Expressing concern over the recent baton charge on BUET students and the Gono Odhikar Parishad activists, they said: "The government must take responsibility for making security forces people-friendly."

In a joint statement on Saturday, they said while a humane and democratic approach by law enforcers was a primary expectation after the July Uprising, the “reality is the opposite”.

“On one hand, there are accusations of law enforcers’ negligence in protecting people's lives and property, religious sites, entertainment venues, national assets, and public places.

“On the other, they are seen using excessive force against unarmed students, political gatherings, groups, and people with differing views. Their failure to control mobs is also heartbreaking.”

The signatories called on the law-enforcing agencies to adhere to human rights principles, refrain from using firearms, and remain vigilant in protecting people's private and religious assets and institutions.

The statement says, “The methods of suppressing opponents or rivals are reminiscent of the ‘fascist’ Awami League era. Law enforcement is accused of making unjust attacks on rallies across the country and arresting individuals on controversial charges from the Awami League era.

“Sometimes it is seen that even when a mob is created to beat dissidents, security personnel detain or arrest the victims. We have no precedent of action being taken against those who create the mob.”

The statement also raised concerns over the use of force by law enforcers during the BUET students' protest.

It said, “While protesting with certain demands, students of Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology faced excessive force. There were allegations that law-enforcing agencies fired sound grenades, tear gas, and pellet bullets during the protest.”

“Although the government criticised the attack on BUET students and the DMP commissioner apologised, the assurances from the government and police officers soon faded away.”

The statement also touched upon the assault on Gono Odhikar Parishad President Nurul Haque Nur, saying: “The joint forces brutally attacked Nur, leaving him bloodied. Other party leaders and activists were also severely beaten. Their office was also attacked.

“We are concerned about such attacks on a July Uprising leader and his party.”