Apurbo Ahmed Jewel: In Bangladesh, there is a long history of political repression and violence, with the government often targeting opposition figures, journalists, and human rights activists. Despite a democratic transition in the 1990s, the country continues to experience political violence and repression, especially during election campaigns and periods of protests.
Political disappearances have become a recurring issue in Bangladesh, with numerous opposition figures and activists being arrested or abducted without legal process. In some cases, individuals are kept in secret detention centers where they are often subjected to torture and other forms of abuse. The government denies any involvement in these disappearances, and many cases remain unresolved.
One of the most infamous incidents of political violence occurred in 2016 when seven individuals were abducted and later killed. The victims were critics of the ruling Awami League government, and their abduction and subsequent murder drew widespread condemnation and international criticism. While promises of thorough investigations were made, accountability for the killings has not been established.
Political repression is a significant concern in Bangladesh, with the government frequently using repressive laws and regulations to silence dissenting voices. Laws related to information and communication technology (ICT), digital security, and criticism of the government in the media are often used to prosecute individuals engaged in online activities. Journalists and media outlets critical of the government have faced harassment, arrest, and threats.
In addition to political repression, the government’s crackdown on the opposition is notable. The main opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has faced legal restrictions, arrests of party leaders, and various administrative measures. Allegations of voter intimidation and manipulation of ballot boxes have also been raised, casting doubt on the fairness of the country’s electoral process.
Human rights activists play a crucial role in highlighting and resisting political repression and disappearances in Bangladesh. Many activists have faced harassment and violence, with some being arbitrarily arrested or forcibly disappeared by security forces. International organizations, including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, have criticized the government for human rights violations and called for respect for citizens’ rights.
In recent years, the international community, including the European Union and the United States, has expressed concern about the political repression in Bangladesh and called on the government to respect the rights of its citizens. Despite these concerns, the government continues to employ various measures to suppress dissent and maintain control over the political landscape.
Political violence and repression remain significant challenges in Bangladesh, requiring urgent and decisive action from the government to address these issues and uphold the rights of its citizens.
Writer : Apurbo Ahmed Jewel
