The Dark Legacy of Sheikh Hasina: UN Exposes Crimes Against Protesters in Bangladesh

Dhaka - In a startling revelation, the United Nations has implicated former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her administration in orchestrating systematic attacks against protesters, actions that may amount to crimes against humanity. Reports estimate that between July 15 and August 5, 2024, up to 1,400 individuals were killed, with security forces responsible for most of these deaths.  

The protests, initially sparked by dissatisfaction with a quota system for government jobs, quickly turned into a nationwide movement against the government. Investigations highlight widespread human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, and torture, used to suppress the uprising. Many protesters, including children, were either shot or executed without trial.  

Following the violent crackdown, Sheikh Hasina fled to India, and an interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus took charge. The UN has called for immediate criminal investigations into these violations, urging major reforms in Bangladesh’s justice system. Recommendations include creating a witness protection program and banning the use of lethal force against protesters.  

These findings emphasize the urgent need for accountability and justice for those affected by the government’s brutal response. Without systemic reforms, Bangladesh risks further instability, and the victims of the crackdown may never see justice. The world now watches to see whether international pressure will lead to real change or if these atrocities will be forgotten in history.