Justice Makers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) has strongly condemned the ‘police crackdown’ on a peaceful demonstration by teachers from various private colleges in Dhaka on October 17.
In a statement, the France-based rights group expressed deep concern over the assault of 33 teachers, including 11 women, who were exercising their democratic right to protest peacefully.
JMBF criticized the alleged use of batons, sound grenades, and water cannons by police against unarmed teachers, calling it a grave violation of Bangladeshi and international laws protecting human rights.
Robert Simon, Chief Adviser of JMBF and a prominent French human rights activist, condemned the violent suppression of peaceful protests, particularly those involving educators with decades of service to society.
“The teachers of Bangladesh deserve respect and the right to have their voices heard, not to be met with brutality and abuse,” he stated.
The incident, which left 33 teachers injured, contradicts Article 37 of Bangladesh’s Constitution, which guarantees the right to peaceful assembly, and Article 33(5), which prohibits all forms of torture, the statement reads.
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JMBF also noted that the police’s actions violate international agreements, including the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), specifically Article 20, which guarantees the right to peaceful assembly.
Furthermore, it contravenes the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), particularly Article 21, and the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT).
Advocate Shahanur Islam, Founder President of JMBF and a Bangladeshi human rights lawyer living in France, criticised the treatment of the teachers, who were protesting to secure Monthly Payment Order (MPO) membership and basic rights after years of unpaid service.
JMBF called on the government of Bangladesh to initiate a judicial inquiry, led by a High Court division justice, to hold the responsible officers accountable for their actions. The group demanded a transparent investigation into the October 17 incident, ensuring justice and compensation for the injured teachers.