Bangladesh Crisis UN Report: The violence in Bangladesh continues unabated. In response to the violence and public outcry, Sheikh Hasina resigned from her position as Prime Minister and fled the country. Over the past 20 to 25 days, 650 people have lost their lives due to the violence across the country, with hundreds more injured. The majority of the deceased are from minority communities. The United Nations report provides information and statistics regarding the chaos in Bangladesh. According to the UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) report, 400 people were killed in the violence between July 16 and August 4. An additional 250 people were killed in the violence that occurred on August 5 and 6. Hundreds have been injured, and many families have been displaced. Sheikh Hasina has fled Bangladesh as a result of this violence.
Between July 16 and August 11, violence that erupted following student and youth protests resulted in more than 650 deaths. The majority of the victims were minority Hindus, but other minorities, journalists, police, and security personnel were also among the dead. Hospitals across the country are overwhelmed, with no room left for new patients. The death toll may exceed 650, but authorities have prevented hospitals from providing accurate information. As a result, the UNHCR report indicates that the exact number of deaths remains unknown. The report also mentions that defense forces have used excessive force. After Sheikh Hasina’s resignation on August 5, reports of looting, robberies, and attacks on minorities emerged nationwide. Two days later, a large mob armed with sticks, iron rods, pipes, and stones attacked the offices of Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League Party, as well as its office bearers and party workers.
UN Team to Review the Situation
UNHCR chief Volker Turk has responded to the crisis, stating, “Action should be taken against those responsible for the violence, those who instigated it, and those whose negligence led to the loss of hundreds of lives. The matter should be investigated impartially.” Turk announced that a UNHCR team will travel to Bangladesh to assess the situation and investigate incidents of violence.
