ICSF

Independent global network of justice advocates and experts acting for the victims of genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and terrorism.

[ICSF @icsforum]

ICSF documentation initiative: BANGLADESH CONFLICT WATCH https://t.co/eioNcmRRAP

The purpose of this platform is to facilitate documentation of conflict violence and incitement from all sides between 1 July 2024 and now.

Please submit your evidence.

[Bangladesh Watch @bdwatch2024]

Calls for Sharia During Coordinated Anti-#India protests in Bangladesh.

Over the past few days, several groups aligned with the #BNP, the #JamaatEIslami, and several #Islamist groups have organised rallies and processions against what they describe as "Indian hegemony."

At one such procession in #Dhaka, organised under the banner of "Ulema and Mashayekhs" (Islamic scholars and students), thousands of participants chanted various slogans such as:

"Delhi or Dhaka? Dhaka, Dhaka"

"Agents of India, Beware"

AND

"Sharia is the Answer."

Video: OBC PLUS.

...

#BangladeshCrisis #Islamism #SouthAsia @paulocasaca1 @CJBdingo25 @Chellaney

[Bangladesh Watch @bdwatch2024]

The #BNP Govt has embarked on a process to make the existing ban on the activities of the #AwamiLeague (AL) permanent by prosecuting and convicting the country’s main secular political party for crimes against humanity.

Given the prevailing political and legal circumstances in #Bangladesh, there is little reason to expect that these proceedings will constitute a genuinely independent or impartial judicial process.

Instead, the trial is likely to amount to little more than a formality designed to provide legal justification for a political decision that has, for all practical purposes, already been made.

Why Mere Formality?

1. AL Remains Effectively Banned

Since May 2025, the activities of the AL have remained prohibited under the Anti-Terrorism Act. The scope of the ban extends well beyond the party's organisational activities.

Public expressions of support for the Awami League have also been criminalised. During the past year, thousands of party leaders, activists, and supporters have reportedly been arrested under the ATA.

The proposed prosecution therefore appears less like an effort to determine legal responsibility than a mechanism to permanently legitimise an existing political reality.

2. No Meaningful Ability for Defence

An equally significant issue concerns the ability of the AL to participate meaningfully in any legal proceedings.

Virtually all senior leaders of the party and its affiliated organisations are either imprisoned or living in exile. This raises an obvious question: who will be able to instruct counsel, coordinate the party's defence, collect evidence, identify witnesses, and formulate legal strategy on the party's behalf?

Even if such coordination were somehow possible, there remains the issue of legal representation. Lawyers associated with the AL have themselves faced judicial proceedings, harassment inside court premises, and exclusion from bar association elections.

These circumstances raise serious questions about whether the party can realistically mount an effective legal defence before the tribunal.

3. The Political Environment

The broader political context further undermines confidence in the independence of the proposed proceedings.

Public statements by leaders of the ruling BNP, as well as their opposition allies #JamaatEIslami and the #NCP have repeatedly suggested that the principal objective is the judicial ban of the AL itself.

Whether the party is ultimately found to have committed crimes against humanity appears, in many of these public statements, to be a secondary consideration.

4. The ICT and Questions of Credibility

The BNP Govt has indicated that it intends to prosecute the AL before the controversial International Crimes Tribunal (ICT). However, as a neutral judicial forum, the ICT presently suffers from a serious credibility deficit.

The tribunal has already become the subject of significant controversy.

Concerns raised include allegations of corruption involving prosecutors and investigators, questions regarding the competence, neutrality, and independence of judges, the appointment of politically affiliated prosecutors, and legal provisions and procedural rules that fall short of globally recognised fair trial standards.

Additional concerns have emerged regarding the ICT's apparent willingness to impose capital punishment on the basis of unreliable evidence such as untested call records and testimony from plea-bargained witnesses who may have faced coercion, intimidation, torture, or political pressure.

Taken together, these issues raise substantial questions about the ICT's ability to adjudicate a case of such immense political significance with the degree of independence and impartiality that would be expected under int’l standards of criminal justice.

Against this backdrop, any future ICT proceeding to determine the criminal responsibility of the AL is likely to be viewed as a formality rather than a genuinely independent judicial process.

…

[Bangladesh Watch @bdwatch2024]

Yet another opposition activist has died in jail #custody in #Bangladesh, bringing the reported number of custodial deaths of #AwamiLeague leaders and activists over the past 23 months to at least 60.

Moniruzzaman Monir, a leader of Jubo League, the youth wing of the Awami League, died on 8 July 2026 at Dhaka Central Jail. According to his family, he had long-standing heart disease and diabetes.

Despite his serious health conditions, he remained in custody for more than one and half years without being charged with any crime.

Although he secured bail on two occasions, he was reportedly re-arrested from the jail gate each time and shown arrested in additional cases, a practice that has become increasingly common for individuals affiliated with the Awami League in Bangladesh.

News: https://t.co/TpztFAOc0R

Custodial deaths in prisons, particularly those involving political detainees, have emerged as one of Bangladesh's most serious human rights concerns since August 2024.

Between September 2024 and June 2026, at least 60 leaders and activists of the #AwamiLeague and its affiliated organisations reportedly died while in the custody of law enforcement agencies and/or prisons. More than 95% of these deaths occurred while the deceased were under prison custody.

List: https://t.co/DD7InokJ6J

To date, not a single reported custodial death has been subjected to an independent, prompt, impartial, and effective investigation, despite serious concerns regarding the treatment of detainees, conditions of detention, access to adequate medical care, and the accountability of state authorities.

According to family members in many of these cases, the deaths were preceded by custodial torture, other forms of cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment, or the denial of timely and adequate medical care.

Several families have also alleged that they were unable to file criminal complaints because of a lack of cooperation from the police and other authorities.

In numerous cases, authorities have reportedly attributed the deaths to sudden "heart attacks" or natural causes, while post-mortem examinations were allegedly delayed, omitted, or conducted under circumstances that failed to inspire the confidence of the victims' families.

The continued absence of credible investigations not only denies victims' families their right to truth and justice but also reinforces a climate of impunity, increasing the risk that similar abuses will continue without accountability.

….

#Bangladesh #HumanRights #CustodialDeaths #RuleOfLaw #Justice #Impunity @amnestysasia @AgnesCallamard @omctorg @meeganguly @PearsonElaine @StateDRL @justiceinfonet @S_Asian_Rights @HannahEP @AFP @ESandersFCDO @AFP @CIVICUSalliance @BonaveroIHR @forum_asia @HRF @UN_SPExperts @DoughtyStIntl @volker_turk @UN_HRC @omctorg @FreefromTorture @TheDavidBergman @cnni @MujMash @CharlieCamp6ell

[ICSF @icsforum]

Phoenix Memo | International Crimes Strategy Forum

সন্ধিক্ষণে বাংলাদেশ

https://t.co/XbMWhvednN

[ICSF @icsforum]

Phoenix Memo | International Crimes Strategy Forum

https://t.co/aAoJIp470q

[International Crimes @IntCrimDatabase]

The #Vienna Regional Court has found Khaled Al H., a former head of the Syrian secret service, guilty of numerous counts of serious bodily harm, aggravated coercion, #torture, and sexual violence.

https://t.co/kv7Fx4JOEU

[International Crimes @IntCrimDatabase]

A German-Rwandan national called Innocent S., accused of #complicity in the 1994 #Rwandan #genocide and 25 counts of #murder during this genocide, has been arrested and will be prosecuted in Germany under the principle of universal jurisdiction.
https://t.co/6C2XMaHMjR

[ICSF @icsforum]

SADF Podcast / Justice or Retribution? Analyzing the ICTBD Verdict Against Hasanul Haque Inu

On June 30, 2026, the International Crimes Tribunal Bangladesh (ICTBD) sentenced prominent politician and veteran 1971 freedom fighter Hasanul Haque Inu to 30 years in prison. In this episode of the South Asia Democratic Forum (SADF) Podcast, host Tapas Kanti Baul (@Tkbaul) is joined by Dr. Rayhan Rashid (@rayhanrashid) of the Oxford Matrix to pull back the curtain on this controversial verdict.

As legal professionals who have actively advised Mr. Inu’s family and his legal team, they provide a rare, insider look into the profound evidentiary gaps, procedural flaws, and systemic biases defining the tribunal today. Together, they dissect how an institution meant for transitional justice is being weaponized by political actors to target secular voices, penalize dissent, and systematically purge those aligned with the values of the 1971 Liberation War.

Is this accountability for the 2024 July Uprising, or a dangerous precedent of political retaliation? Tune in for an essential, rigorous analysis of the rule of law in Bangladesh.

#BangladeshCrisis #ICTBD #HasanulHaqueInu #HumanRights #RuleOfLaw

https://t.co/CbNoZzVPwT

[Bangladesh Watch @bdwatch2024]

59 Custodial Deaths of Awami League Leaders and Activists in 21 Months

Between September 2024 and June 2026, a total of 59 leaders and activists of the #AwamiLeague and its affiliated organisations reportedly died while in the custody of law enforcement agencies and/or prisons.

List: https://t.co/DD7InokJ6J

To date, not a single reported custodial death has been subjected to an independent, prompt, impartial, and effective investigation.

Custodial deaths of opposition activists have emerged as one of the most serious #humanrights concerns in #Bangladesh. The reported deaths raise grave questions regarding the treatment of detainees, the conditions of detention, access to medical care, and the accountability of state authorities.

According to family members in many of these cases, the deaths were preceded by custodial torture, other forms of ill-treatment, or the denial of timely and adequate medical treatment.

Several families have further alleged that they have been unable to register criminal complaints due to a lack of cooperation from the police and other authorities.

In numerous cases, authorities have reportedly attributed the deaths to sudden "heart attacks" or natural causes, while post-mortem examinations have allegedly been delayed, omitted, or conducted without the confidence of the families.

Such practices undermine public confidence and risk compromising crucial evidence.

The absence of credible investigations not only deprives victims' families of truth and justice but also contributes to a climate of #impunity in which similar abuses may continue unchecked.

Bangladesh is under a clear legal obligation to investigate every custodial death.

As a State Party to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), Bangladesh is required to protect the right to life (Article 6) and to ensure that allegations of arbitrary deprivation of life are investigated effectively.

The UN Human Rights Committee has consistently held that where an individual dies in state custody, authorities must conduct investigations that are prompt, independent, impartial, transparent, and capable of leading to accountability where wrongdoing is established.

Bangladesh is also a State Party to the Convention against Torture (CAT), which requires authorities to conduct prompt and impartial investigations whenever there are reasonable grounds to believe that torture or other prohibited ill-treatment has occurred.

Allegations by family members of custodial torture or denial of medical treatment therefore trigger an obligation to investigate, irrespective of whether a formal complaint has been filed.

Furthermore, the Minnesota Protocol on the Investigation of Potentially Unlawful Death (2016), the internationally recognised standard for investigating suspicious deaths, provides that every death occurring in state custody is presumed to warrant an effective, independent investigation because the state exercises complete control over the life and wellbeing of detainees.

Authorities are expected to preserve evidence, conduct independent forensic examinations, ensure transparency, and facilitate meaningful participation by the deceased's family.

Justice for victims requires more than official explanations. Every custodial death must be independently investigated, those responsible held accountable where evidence establishes criminal liability, and victims' families provided access to truth, justice, and effective remedies.

…

#JusticeForTheInvisible #BangladeshCrisis @amnestysasia @AgnesCallamard @omctorg @meeganguly @PearsonElaine @StateDRL @justiceinfonet @S_Asian_Rights @HannahEP @ESandersFCDO @AFP @CIVICUSalliance @BonaveroIHR @forum_asia @HRF @UN_SPExperts @DoughtyStIntl @volker_turk @UN_HRC @omctorg @FreefromTorture @TheDavidBergman @cnni @MujMash @CharlieCamp6ell

[Bangladesh Watch @bdwatch2024]

CJA Urges #Bangladesh Government to Release Four #Journalists Detained for 600+ Days and Drop 'Politically Motivated' Charges.

The Commonwealth Journalists Association (CJA) has urged the Bangladesh Govt to immediately release four senior journalists who have been detained for more than 600 days and to withdraw what it described as "politically motivated" charges against them.

In a statement issued on 28 June, the international media organisation called on the #BNP Govt to honour its election pledge to withdraw politically motivated cases against journalists by immediately reviewing the cases against the four detainees.

The CJA expressed deep concern over the continued detention of its Vice-President Shyamal Dutta, editor of Bhorer Kagoj, along with Ekattor TV journalists Mozammel Haq Babu, Farzana Rupa, and Shakil Ahmed.

Describing the prosecutions as being "in retaliation" for the journalists' professional work, the association called for "the immediate review of the cases against these journalists, the withdrawal of charges where no credible evidence exists, and their prompt release." It stated:

"Journalism must never be criminalised on the basis of political perceptions or professional associations," the statement said.

According to the CJA, the four journalists have been detained for more than 18 months on #murder-related allegations. The organisation noted that, despite nearly 600 days having passed, no charge sheets have reportedly been filed and no credible evidence has been publicly presented to substantiate the accusations.

The CJA also raised serious humanitarian concerns regarding the journalists' continued detention. It noted that Shyamal Dutta suffers from documented cardiac and severe sleep apnoea conditions that require proper medical assessment and treatment.

The association further stated that Mozammel Haq Babu, who underwent major surgery for prostate cancer in late 2023, has reportedly been denied essential follow-up medical care.

The CJA also expressed concern over reports that Farzana Rupa was held for two weeks in a condemnation cell reserved for death-row inmates, saying the reported treatment raised serious questions about her welfare and the conditions of her detention.

Reiterating its position, the organisation stated:

"All journalists, irrespective of their editorial positions or perceived political leanings, are entitled to due process, humane treatment, and the full protection of the law."

The CJA urged the Bangladesh Government to ensure that these principles are upheld by promptly reviewing the cases, withdrawing charges where no credible evidence exists, and securing the immediate release of the detained journalists.

Statement:

https://t.co/DCc824ZMXm

….

#BangladeshCrisis @amnestysasia @AgnesCallamard @taqbirhuda @meeganguly @PearsonElaine @StateDRL @justiceinfonet @job71org @icsforum @article19org @pressfreedom @RSF_inter @IFJGlobal @ifjasiapacific @MediaFreedomC @S_Asian_Rights @CommonwealthJA @ESandersFCDO @CIVICUSalliance @BonaveroIHR @forum_asia @Irenekhan @UN_SPExperts @DoughtyStIntl @volker_turk @UN_HRC @KunalMajumder @CPJAsia

[International Crimes @IntCrimDatabase]

Five former members of the Serbian police forces have been placed in pre-trial detention in Kosovo for allegedly committing #warcrimes against the civilian population in the village #Recak/ #Racak on 15 January 1999.
https://t.co/8JUmkIVTRO

[Dr Rayhan Rashid @rayhanrashid]

Re: ICT’s verdict against Mr Hasanul Haq Inu
================
The International Crimes Tribunal-2 today sentenced valiant freedom fighter and JASOD President Mr Hasanul Haq Inu to 30 years’ imprisonment after convicting him on three (out of eight) charges in a crimes against humanity case. Of the eight charges brought against him, he was acquitted of five.

Since day one of this case, his legal team has tirelessly and robustly challenged every aspect of the prosecution’s case against Mr Inu. As a member of his legal team, my only consolation today is that Mr Inu was spared the death penalty. However, given the evidence and the record of the proceedings, I remain firmly of the view that he should have been acquitted of all eight charges, if the principles of a fair trial and due process are to have any real meaning. While the outcome remains deeply disappointing, I believe the determined legal battle fought on his behalf played an important role in ensuring that every aspect of the prosecution’s case was rigorously challenged.

I thank and congratulate every member of the legal and advocacy team who worked fearlessly to defend Mr Inu before the Tribunal. I also thank everyone who, although not formally part of the legal team, supported us, advised us, and gave us courage throughout these proceedings. At a time when even representing someone before a court in Bangladesh can be a dangerous undertaking, that support has meant more than words can express.

Although Mr Inu did not receive the death penalty and was convicted on only three charges while being acquitted of five, there is nothing to celebrate. The next stage of this case is an appeal before the Supreme Court of Bangladesh, and we, as part of Mr Inu’s legal team, intend to pursue that course. We remain committed to taking this legal battle to the next level and will continue to do everything we can in the pursuit of justice.

Anyone interested in learning more about the case and the proceedings before the Tribunal is welcome to contact us.

[Bangladesh Watch @bdwatch2024]

#Islamist groups have launched a coordinated campaign across #Bangladesh to display a white flag bearing the "Shahadah" (#Islamic declaration of faith) in black.

This flag is the official flag of the #Taliban in #Afghanistan, while a black version carrying the same inscription has been used by #terrorist organisations such as #ISIS.

Although the Shahadah itself is a sacred Islamic declaration, these specific flag designs have been adopted by #extremist groups, making their public display in this context a matter of concern.

The flags are being flown from motorcycles and vehicles and have been erected on roadsides, bridges, and other public spaces. Media reports say they have appeared in at least 12 districts, including several key areas of #Dhaka.

A former leader of #HefazatEIslam Harun Izhar, who was jailed under the #AwamiLeague Govt for his extremist preaching and later released during the #Yunus-led interim administration, is believed to be the spiritual force behind the campaign.

In a widely circulated video, he instructs his followers:

"Put the flag of the Shahadah everywhere. If needed, take down the other flags and put up this one."

Despite the scale of the campaign and the obvious security concerns it raises, police say they have not identified those responsible. Witnesses, however, have told local media that #Madrasa students are being used to install the flags.

Hefazat leaders also have openly endorsed the campaign. HeI Joint Secretary General Maolana Idris Ali stated:

"If a flag with the Shahadah is installed once, it cannot be taken down ever. As an Islamic country, we support this campaign."

Associate Professor and #criminology expert Dr. Touhid Hoque of Dhaka University has warned that similar flags have previously been used by extremist groups in Bangladesh.

He cautions that this campaign could be a rehearsal for an extremist group to signal its presence and influence, posing a serious risk to Bangladesh's communal harmony. He also urged the authorities to treat the matter with the seriousness it deserves.

Video: Times of Bangladesh.

News:
https://t.co/AuwkjUw2M9

...

#BangladeshCrisis @paulocasaca1 #IslamistResurgence @Chellaney @DavidPBMaddox @CJBdingo25 @CharlieCamp6ell #Islamism

[Bangladesh Watch @bdwatch2024]

7 #AwamiLeague Activists Went Missing After 22 June Founding Anniversary Events; 3 Bodies Recovered from Turag River, 4 Still Missing Amid Allegations of Political Violence and Cover-Up

17-year-old Sumon left his home on 22 June 2026 to participate in events marking the founding anniversary of the Awami League. He never returned. After four days of uncertainty, his body was recovered from the Turag River in Dhaka. Sumon was a member of the Turag Thana Unit of the Chhatra League, the Awami League's student wing.

In our previous post, we reported on Arif Hasan Rakib, another #ChhatraLeague activist from the Turag Thana Unit, who also disappeared after attending the 22 June events. His body was recovered from the Turag River two days later. The third confirmed victim is Biplab, an activist of the 53 No. Ward Jubo League (the Awami League's youth wing) in Dhaka.

In total, three bodies of Awami League activists have been recovered from the Turag River on 24 and 25 June, all of whom had left their homes on 22 June to participate in the party's founding anniversary events. Four additional activists remain missing and are feared dead.

Allegations of Violence

According to Awami League sources, participants in the founding anniversary procession were deliberately targeted, chased, and assaulted by local BNP leaders and activists, allegedly with the involvement of members of law enforcement agencies.

A video published by Freedom Bangla News features testimony from an Awami League activist who says he was present during the incident and managed to escape. According to his account, local BNP activists and police jointly attacked a boat carrying Awami League supporters. As the attack unfolded, several people were reportedly forced to jump into the Turag River in an attempt to save themselves.

Allegations of Cover-Up

The families of those whose bodies have been recovered have largely remained silent after receiving the remains of their loved ones. In several cases, they have reportedly downplayed or declined to publicly acknowledge the victims' political affiliations.

Awami League sources allege that BNP leaders, law enforcement agencies, and security personnel, including members of the Directorate General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI), Bangladesh's dreaded military intelligence agency, have threatened the families, warning them against speaking publicly about the deaths or alleging political motives.

Meanwhile, police have issued statements describing the deaths as “accidental drownings”, reportedly without conducting even the minimum necessary inquiries. Authorities have denied that the deaths were politically motivated or connected to the events of 22 June.

Calls for Independent Inquiry

Given the number of disappearances and deaths, the circumstances under which they occurred, and the seriousness of the allegations involving political violence, law enforcement, and state security agencies, there is a pressing need for an independent, impartial, and transparent investigation, preferably a judicial inquiry.

Such an inquiry should establish the sequence of events leading to the disappearance and deaths of the seven activists, examine the allegations of coordinated attacks and intimidation, determine whether any state or non-state actors were involved, and ensure that those responsible, if any wrongdoing is established, are held accountable in accordance with the law.

Sources:

https://t.co/Z5voqr8SVI

https://t.co/glrgrlA5oX

https://t.co/uAISdAo2Zd

...

#BangladeshCrisis @amnestysasia @AgnesCallamard @omctorg @meeganguly @PearsonElaine @StateDRL @justiceinfonet @S_Asian_Rights @ESandersFCDO @CIVICUSalliance @BonaveroIHR @forum_asia @HRF @UN_SPExperts @DoughtyStIntl @volker_turk @UN_HRC @omctorg @FreefromTorture @TheDavidBergman

[Bangladesh Watch @bdwatch2024]

Persecution in Numbers: How #Bangladesh’s Criminal Justice System Has Been Weaponalised Against the Political Opposition.

Using the violent events of July–August 2024 as a pretext, Bangladesh’s entire criminal justice system has been turned into a tool for targeting leaders, activists, and even ordinary supporters of the #AwamiLeague.

In the last 22 months, at least 1,868 criminal cases have been filed in connection with the violence and deaths arising from the 2024 anti-Awami League protests. These cases have implicated approximately 225,000 people, either by name or as “unnamed” accused.

These figures do not include the hundreds of additional cases filed against Awami League leaders, activists, and supporters under the Anti-Terrorism Act, 2009, following the suspension of the party’s activities (a de facto ban) in May 2025.

A further 80 cases have been brought before the controversial International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), where 463 individuals have been accused.

Despite the scale of this legal onslaught, investigations have been completed in only 242 of the 1,868 July-related criminal cases, and formal charges have been filed in just 60 cases.

The most striking figure of all: 663 separate cases have been filed against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

The numbers speak for themselves.

What is unfolding in Bangladesh today is not justice. It is the systematic weaponisation of the legal system against political opponents.

…

#Bangladesh #BangladeshCrisis @hrw @amnestysasia @StateDRL @UN_HRC @IBAHRI @ESandersFCDO @HRF @Ginitastar @cvoule @SRjudgeslawyers @UNHumanRights @volker_turk @PearsonElaine @EURightsAgency @cnni @CIVICUSalliance @fidh_en @forum_asia @FortifyRights @S_Asian_Rights @TheDavidBergman @paulocasaca1

[Bangladesh Watch @bdwatch2024]

The academic #purge, initiated under the #Yunus-led Interim Govt, continues with full vigour under the #BNP Govt: Five #Dhaka University staffs suspended for their political position during the 2024 anti-#AwamiLeague protests.

It appears that the Mao’s Cultural Revolution-inspired purge of academia in #Bangladesh, initiated under the Interim Govt led by Muhammad Yunus, remains alive and well under the #TariqueRahman-led BNP Govt.

Dhaka University (DU) has suspended three professors, relieved another of his academic duties, and suspended a member of its administrative staff over allegations related to their conduct during last year's anti-Awami League protests.

The move represents one of the most severe disciplinary actions ever taken by the university against academic and administrative personnel for their perceived political positions and activities.

The decisions were taken at a syndicate meeting on Monday night chaired by Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr ABM Obaidul Islam. The three suspended academics are Professor Dr Nazmul Ahsan Kalimullah of the Department of Public Administration, Professor AKM Jamal Uddin of the Department of Sociology, and Professor Shibli Rubayat Ul Islam of the Department of Banking and Insurance.

Professor Dr Mohammad Azmal Hossain Bhuiyan of the Department of Botany has been relieved of his academic duties, while university official Lavlu Molla Shishir has also been suspended over the same allegations.

News:

https://t.co/iNpAcavNHR

These latest measures follow an earlier wave of disciplinary actions in which 128 enrolled Dhaka University #students had their studentships cancelled and were suspended from their academic programmes on allegations that they were activists or leaders of #ChhatraLeague, the student wing of the Awami League, and had taken positions contrary to those of the 2024 protesters.

Beyond those formally suspended, hundreds of other students who held no official positions within Chhatra League but were known or perceived to be sympathetic to the organisation have also seen their academic lives severely disrupted.

Although many of these students were never formally disciplined, the atmosphere of intimidation, insecurity, and political retribution that has prevailed across higher educational institutions since August 2024 has compelled many to abandon or suspend their studies in order to safeguard their personal security and well-being.

See:

https://t.co/mKKgEHHozG

https://t.co/y95tqkO1PK

The suspension of students, teachers, and administrative staff solely on the basis of their political views, affiliations, or perceived political positions raises serious concerns regarding violations of fundamental rights.

Such actions infringe the rights to freedom of expression, freedom of thought and opinion, and freedom of association; rights protected under international human rights instruments including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), as well as under the Constitution of Bangladesh.

The latest sanctions imposed on academic and administrative personnel also raise profound concerns regarding academic freedom. While not codified in a single global treaty, academic. freedom is widely recognised and protected through human rights jurisprudence, educational standards, and the work of international organisations concerned with higher education.

Universities are traditionally understood to be spaces where individuals pursue teaching, research, scholarship, and public engagement without fear of political retaliation. Disciplinary measures imposed because of political beliefs or positions risk undermining these principles and eroding the intellectual independence upon which institutions of higher learning depend.

…

#BangladeshCrisis #AcademicPurge @amnestysasia @hrw @ESandersFCDO @StateDRL @EURightsAgency @UNESCO @OHCHRAsia @volker_turk @Ginitastar @UNHumanRights

[Bangladesh Watch @bdwatch2024]

#BNP Govt Intensifies Crackdown on #AwamiLeague Ahead of Party’s Founding Anniversary: At Least 112 Detained in the Last 24 Hours Across 16 Districts.

The BNP government, led by Prime Minister #TariqueRahman, has intensified its ongoing law enforcement crackdown on its principal political opponent, the Awami League, ahead of the party’s founding anniversary. At least 112 AL leaders and activists were arbitrarily arrested over the last 24 hours across at least 16 districts.

More Than 2,300 Arrested in the Last Seven Weeks

Between 1 May and 10 June 2026, at least 1,958 activists and supporters of AL and its affiliated organizations were arrested by police across #Bangladesh. Since then, arrests continued on a regular basis, with scores of individuals reportedly detained every day.

To date, we have documented more than 2,300 arrests over the last seven weeks.

Arrests in the Last 24 Hours by District

Dhaka: At least 26 AL activists and supporters were arrested from different areas of the capital.

News: https://t.co/K5W6U1jOnS

Habiganj: Shayestaganj Upazila AL Joint General Secretary Abdul Malek was arrested.

News: https://t.co/ZnaQBRbvu1

Rangamati: At least 26 AL activists and supporters were arrested from different areas of the district.

News: https://t.co/pAv3lTJfNi

Narayanganj: Police arrested Sanaullah, former General Secretary of the Fatullah unit of the AL.

News: https://t.co/WVIFGoQnDI

Police also arrested Volunteer League activist Nazmul Khan Shanto from Sonargaon Upazila.

News: https://t.co/oyVg90rfVG

Chattogram: At least six AL activists and supporters were arrested from Chandanaish Upazila.

News: https://t.co/6sm24sWqB1

Chuadanga: At least seven AL activists and supporters were arrested from different parts of the district.

News: https://t.co/JQet8puTNw

Kurigram: Police arrested Md. Abul Kalam Azad, General Secretary of the district unit of the AL.

News: https://t.co/5T9BCdOtgC

Gazipur: At least 30 AL activists and supporters were arrested from different parts of the district.

News: https://t.co/Ak7JjI33ab

Jashore: Police arrested former councillor Mizanur Rahman Molla and Sheikh Habibur Rahman, General Secretary of a union AL unit, from Abhaynagar Upazila.

News: https://t.co/cnRPe0xHjd

Gopalganj: At least six AL activists and supporters were arrested from different parts of the district.

News: https://t.co/SMuEN750v3

Bogura: Police arrested Chhatra League activist Sakib Hossain from Adamdighi.

News: https://t.co/EXyOlHZBzV

Barishal: Police arrested former city councillor and former General Secretary of the District Bar Association, Advocate Rafiqul Islam Khokan.

News: https://t.co/zeG9I7GYxy

Madaripur: At least eight AL activists and supporters were arrested from different parts of the district.

News: https://t.co/LjSrCjRP0Q

Real Arrest Figures Likely Higher

At BD Watch, we have been regularly documenting and reporting on these arrests. It should be noted that the figures we report are based solely on cases covered by the media. As a result, arrests that receive little or no media attention may not be reflected in our calculations.

The figures we publish should therefore be regarded as minimum estimates rather than exhaustive totals.

In the overwhelming majority of documented cases, those detained are political activists and supporters accused of participating in, or planning, flash processions, putting up political posters, distributing leaflets, and demonstrating for the removal of the ban on their party’s political activities.

….

#BangladeshCrisis @hrw @amnestysasia @StateDRL @UN_HRC @IBAHRI @ESandersFCDO @Ginitastar @cvoule @SRjudgeslawyers @UNHumanRights @volker_turk @PearsonElaine @EURightsAgency @CIVICUSalliance @fidh_en @forum_asia @FortifyRights @S_Asian_Rights

[Bangladesh Watch @bdwatch2024]

Multiple #Journalists Assaulted by #JamaatEIslami Activists in #Dhaka.

Several journalists covering events surrounding the founding anniversary of the #AwamiLeague were assaulted by activists and supporters of Jamaat-e-Islami in Dhaka’s Dhanmondi 32 area this morning.

According to media personnel present at the scene, activists from Jamaat’s Dhaka Metro South unit brought out a procession at around 8:30 a.m. in the Dhanmondi Road 32 area.

Following the procession, some journalists questioned members of the #Islamist party. During the exchange, some activists used derogatory terms such as “fascist collaborators” and “Indian agents” to refer to certain journalists. Media workers present immediately protested these remarks.

Subsequently, Jamaat protesters reportedly attacked several journalists at the scene, seriously injuring Daily Shokal multimedia correspondent Mahfuzur Rahman Shishir. Other injured journalists include Abdur Rahman Ishan of Daily Kalbela and Rabbi Siddiqui of Jamuna TV.

In total, approximately 20–25 media workers came under attack.

Although police officers were present at the scene, journalists seeking assistance were reportedly told that the police could not intervene without approval from their senior officials.

News:

https://t.co/PboWD2mHbB

Video (c) DBC News.

...

#BangladeshCrisis @amnestysasia @AgnesCallamard @meeganguly @PearsonElaine @StateDRL @justiceinfonet @article19org @pressfreedom @RSF_inter @IFJGlobal @ifjasiapacific @MediaFreedomC @S_Asian_Rights @CommonwealthJA @ESandersFCDO #PressFreedom @CIVICUSalliance @BonaveroIHR @forum_asia @Irenekhan @UN_SPExperts @DoughtyStIntl @volker_turk @UN_HRC @KunalMajumder @CPJAsia

[Lemkin Institute for Genocide Prevention @LemkinInstitute]

Raphael Lemkin, the Jewish-Polish jurist who coined the term "genocide," was born on June 24, 1900 in Bezwodne, a small town in the Russian Empire (present-day Belarus). Having always felt a compassion for persecuted peoples, Lemkin would become the man who, with an inspiring combination of moral vision, humanitarian passion, tenacity, and chutzpah, almost single-handedly brought the world to draft and ratify a Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in 1948.

Lemkin's interest in the crime that he would eventually call genocide began in his youth, when he read Henryk Sienkiewicz's Quo Vadis, which depicts the persecution of Christians in the Roman Empire. He grew up in a world of immense complexity and diversity and was keenly aware of the antisemitic pogroms occurring around him, including the terrible 1906 pogrom in Bialystok. He began to formulate an analysis of the "crime without a name" after the Armenian genocide of World War I. He proposed a law against the crime already at a international legal conference in 1933.

Lemkin was to lose 49 members of his family in the Holocaust, including his parents. Despite this enormous personal tragedy, he devoted his postwar life to the ratification of the Genocide Convention.

The world has failed Raphael Lemkin and all other victims and survivors of genocide by failing to prevent the genocides we have seen since 1945, including genocides that are ongoing today.

It is essential that we keep the memory of this beautiful human being alive and fight as hard as he did to prevent this monstrous crime everywhere it is threatened.

[International Crimes @IntCrimDatabase]

The UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel has published its findings on the deliberate targeting and killing of Palestinian children by Israel.
https://t.co/YWl3q6TUUt

[International Crimes @IntCrimDatabase]

The Hague District Court has found a Syrian national guilty of committing multiple #crimesagainsthumanity of torture, rape and sexual violence within his capacity as interrogator for the National Defence Forces (#NDF) in Syria in 2013 and 2014.
https://t.co/sD51tQYru4