The United Nations has reported that around 1,400 people died during anti-government protests under Sheikh Hasina’s regime in Bangladesh. The global body emphasized that the Hasina-led government orchestrated systematic attacks and killings of protesters to remain in power. Such measures as the UN underlined may be qualified as “crimes against humanity.
Government Overthrown After Student-Led Agitation
Mass agitation, spearheaded by students, led to the ouster of Hasina’s government last August. Following her ouster, she relocated to neighboring India. Initially, demonstrations against civil service job quotas, however, the demonstrations have become a movement demanding Hasina to step down all over the country.
The UN published its report following a fact-finding mission into the events between 1 July and 15 August 20191. The UN rights office confirmed it had “reasonable grounds to believe that the crimes against humanity of murder, torture, imprisonment, and infliction of other inhumane acts have taken place.
According to the report, using more than 230 confidential interviews, medical data, photos, and videos, the government, in consultation with members of Awami League and Bangladeshi security apparatuses, systematically targeted protestors and civilians.
Hasina Defies Arrest Warrant
Hasina has refused to accept an arrest warrant for crimes against humanity. According to the UN report [here], apart from those killed by the violence itself, security forces supporting the government of President Hasina intensified the use of violent countermeasures, thus resulting in a shocking number of dead.
The UN mission, launched at the request of Bangladesh’s interim leader, Mohammed Yunus, included human rights investigators, a forensic physician, and a weapons expert. Findings indicate that security forces killed most of the 1,400 victims, with children accounting for 12-13% of those killed. Thousands more suffered injuries during the violent crackdown.
The estimated death toll is higher than the 834 deaths reported by the Bangladesh interim government. The UN further stated that the former administration systematically used violent means to suppress dissent.
Violence Against Minorities Escalates in Bangladesh
As the protests intensified, minority communities in Bangladesh faced increased violence. According to the Associated Press (AP), Hindus—a significant minority—suffered numerous attacks. Between 4 and 20 August 2013, the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council registered 2,010 incidents of communal violence. These included attacks on 69 temples, vandalism, arson, and physical assaults, resulting in deaths and injuries.
Between August 21 and December 31, 2024, another 174 incidents occurred, claiming 23 lives.
International Community Raises Concern
UN’s disclosures have led to an outcry around the globe, and human rights groups are calling for justice. The report highlights the urgency for further independent inquests and international action to stop ongoing human rights abuses in Bangladesh.
The interim administration has not responded to the UN’s findings yet. In the meantime, Hasina is staying in India, flouting legal action in Bangladesh.
