Bangladesh authorities faced criticism from an international human rights organization for their handling of student protests outside the National Parliament in Dhaka. The demonstrations, which started on July 14, involved Higher Secondary Certificate candidates protesting various issues related to the Education Minister. Reports indicated that the situation turned tense when protesters tried to march towards the Parliament, leading to police intervention.
The students were reportedly calling for the Education Minister’s resignation due to concerns over the examination schedule, exam conditions, question paper quality, and derogatory remarks made by the Minister. Justice Makers Bangladesh in France expressed serious concerns over the use of force against what they described as a peaceful assembly, highlighting violations of rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly guaranteed by the Constitution of Bangladesh.
The incident drew condemnation from Shahanur Islam, Founder President of Justice Makers Bangladesh in France, who emphasized the inappropriateness of using excessive force against students. The organization called for an independent investigation, overseen by international human rights experts, to hold those responsible accountable and ensure proper medical care and support for injured students. Additionally, they urged authorities to refrain from any retaliatory actions against the student protesters.
