ASK flags prevailing human rights crisis in Bangladesh

The Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has expressed deep concern over the human rights crisis prevailing in Bangladesh.

In a press statement, the ASK urged the interim government to establish the rule of law, adherence to due legal process, and ensure a rights-respecting environment in the country.

The human rights organisation has also called for an end to arbitrary arrests, mob violence, and attacks on minorities, as well as for effective action against violence against women.

It also urged authorities concerned to protect freedom of expression and media freedom, uphold the constitutional rights of assembly and association, and ensure transparency and accountability in all investigations of human rights violations.

"The state must now adopt an effective, responsible, and human rights-friendly approach to prevent the dream of change – achieved through the blood and sacrifice of the people – from failing," the statement read.

However, ASK said the interim government has failed to meet public expectations.

"Arbitrary arrests continue, along with custodial deaths and extrajudicial killings -- echoing the repressive behaviour of the previous regime. Meanwhile, deteriorating law and order have heightened public insecurity."

The organisation also noted a concerning rise in "mob violence" across the country, stating that such incidents, often politically instigated or triggered by social tensions, have left many dead and injured.

It criticised the law enforcement agencies and responsible institutions for failing to play an effective role in preventing such violence, calling it a serious threat to human rights.

Another deeply concerning issue, according to ASK, is the continued vulnerability of religious minorities.

"Despite public expectations of an inclusive and rights-based system, attacks, intimidation, and persecution of religious and ethnic minorities have increased."

"The lack of visible justice in these cases has deepened the sense of insecurity among minority communities."

The situation has also become more dire for women, particularly those who were at the forefront of the mass movement, the ASK noted.

It highlighted "increasing incidents of public assaults, humiliation, and physical abuse of women. Cases of rape, sexual harassment, and domestic violence are now commonplace. Women are also facing growing moral policing -- with hate speech, scrutiny over their dress and behaviour becoming more frequent."

The statement further alleged that journalists have been facing widespread harassment.

"Hundreds of journalists have had their press accreditation cards revoked, while others were forced out of their jobs through strategic manoeuvres. False charges, arrests, and attacks on media houses have raised persistent concerns about the freedom of expression."

The ASK also expressed concern over the violation of student rights on campuses. Many students have reportedly been arbitrarily expelled or had their certificates revoked, which the organisation deems alarming.

"Such actions threaten the students' right to education, freedom of expression, and the democratic values they stand for."

Amidst this "bleak scenario, one positive development noted in the statement is Bangladesh's signing of the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance."

The interim government has also formed a commission to investigate past enforced disappearances under the previous regime.

The ASK considers this a significant step towards accountability and upholding international human rights standards.

However, it criticised the government's failure to restructure the National Human Rights Commission, which casts doubt on its commitment to protecting human rights.

The ASK also welcomed the announcement of a possible election schedule by the chief adviser following pressure from political parties.

"This decision is a positive step towards restoring democratic order. We hope it paves the way for a free, fair, neutral, and inclusive election."

The ASK reiterated its strong call for the establishment of the rule of law, proper legal procedures, and a human rights-respecting environment in Bangladesh.