London, July 27, 2024 – A significant motion has been submitted to the UK Parliament, highlighting grave concerns regarding the human rights situation in Bangladesh. Signed by 22 Members of Parliament (MPs) so far, the motion seeks to address recent alarming events in the South Asian nation. To be formally tabled in the House of Commons, the motion requires a total of 100 signatures.
The text of the motion reads:
“That this House is alarmed about the human rights situation in Bangladesh; is particularly appalled that a large number of students have been killed or brutally injured whilst protesting against the Government’s quota system; notes Bangladesh Supreme Court’s latest ruling on the quota system but remains concerned for the safety of the students and civilians in Bangladesh participating in protests; believes that the violence towards them, unlawful killings, the shutting down of the internet and mobile services, and other forms of repression are unacceptable and are in conflict with Bangladesh’s human rights obligations; is concerned about the potential long-term consequences for civilians; and reaffirms that the right to protest, freedom of assembly and freedom of expression are inalienable and fundamental to any functioning democracy.”
The motion underscores the following key issues:
- Student Protests and Violence: The motion condemns the killing and brutal injury of students protesting against the Bangladeshi Government’s quota system.
- Supreme Court Ruling: While acknowledging the latest ruling by the Bangladesh Supreme Court on the quota system, the motion expresses ongoing concerns for the safety of those participating in protests.
- Human Rights Violations: It highlights various human rights abuses, including violence against protesters, unlawful killings, internet shutdowns, and other forms of repression, which contravene Bangladesh’s human rights obligations.
- Fundamental Rights: The motion emphasizes the importance of the right to protest, freedom of assembly, and freedom of expression as fundamental to any functioning democracy.
The motion is gaining traction, with additional MPs expected to lend their support. If it reaches the required 100 signatures, it will be tabled for discussion in the House of Commons, prompting further scrutiny and debate on the human rights situation in Bangladesh.
This move by the UK Parliament reflects growing international concern over the state of human rights in Bangladesh and signals a call for urgent action to address these issues.
