Ensuring fair and inclusive justice is vital

UN human rights chief at the end of his two-day visit to Bangladesh sent a message What resonates in these trying times is that justice must be fair, comprehensive and aimed at breaking the cycle of violence that plagued the nation before and after the toppling of the Awami League government. As Bangladesh begins the process of achieving justice for those killed in the insurgency, Volker Turk’s emphasis on following due process and extending the scope of justice to all victims of murders and human rights violations is worth serious consideration in today’s challenging environment.

The importance of justice in the killing of protesters and innocent bystanders during the riot cannot be ignored. At the same time, the post-August 5 period witnessed significant retaliatory violence as well as mob justice requiring investigation. It is crucial to avoid the trap of selective justice, where some victims are overlooked and accusations are weaponized against others. Since the establishment of the interim government on 8 August, at least 1,695 murder cases related to the uprising have been opened; most of these targeted politicians and businessmen with ties to the old regime. Referring to concerns about suspicious and politically motivated cases, Türk said, “We cannot ensure that a lawsuit is filed on charges that are not made properly; therefore, it is extremely important to resolve this and there is a commission established to do exactly this.” Address this issue.”

Turk also touched upon other issues that need equal consideration, including compliance with international standards throughout the justice process, from investigation to trial to sentencing. The call for impartial investigation is particularly important. Turk also suggested several measures that could be crucial in guiding Bangladesh towards stability and a more just society. He advocated for the UN Human Rights Office to establish a branch in Bangladesh to support the government’s reform drive. He called for the National Human Rights Commission to be independent and fully functional so that it can more effectively protect human rights. He also emphasized that women and minority groups must play a central role in the transition process.

All such proposals deserve careful consideration, not only to promote national healing and reconciliation, but also to prevent a repetition of the abuses that have long torn the nation apart.