A human rights organization strongly criticized Bangladeshi authorities for the recent mass arrests of over 1,000 leaders, activists, and supporters of the Awami League party and its affiliates. The arrests were made during special operations across Bangladesh in connection with the Awami League’s 77th founding anniversary. Media reports and sources revealed that at least 654 Awami League members were arrested in various regions, with the actual number of arrests likely exceeding 1,000.
Expressing serious concerns, the organization highlighted that these arrests lacked legal basis and violated individuals’ rights to liberty and security. It emphasized that political affiliations should not be used to curtail fundamental human rights. The group also criticized the government for continuing an executive ban on the Awami League’s activities and deploying security forces to prevent the party from peacefully observing its anniversary.
The founder of the organization, Shahanur Islam, underscored the historical significance of the Awami League in Bangladesh’s independence and called for an immediate halt to actions impeding the party’s activities. Additionally, the rights body urged international entities, including the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and the European Union, to monitor the situation closely and address the political repression and human rights violations in Bangladesh.
