The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said that mob justice is not acceptable in any way. Every crime must be investigated.
In response to a question during a press conference at a hotel in the capital on Wednesday (October 30), UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk addressed the issue of mob justice in Bangladesh. Following the July-August movement, incidents of mob justice have occurred in various parts of the country. When asked about this, the High Commissioner emphasized that mob justice is completely unacceptable and stressed that every crime must be properly investigated.
Addressing the issue of impunity for police killings during the movement, Volker Turk stated that no killing should go unpunished. He emphasized that every murder must be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted. Failure to do so raises serious concerns about human rights.
Speaking about the cases filed against various individuals during the movement, Volker Turk emphasized that cases must be handled systematically. He stressed the importance of addressing this issue properly, noting that a commission has been formed to look into the matter. “We don’t want to repeat the mistakes of the past,” he said, adding that justice and a fair investigation are essential.
Volker Turk highlighted the importance of ensuring that criminal cases are not filed against individuals, including members or supporters of the Awami League, solely based on their past political involvement. He stressed that justice must be impartial and not influenced by political affiliations.
In response to discussions about declaring and banning Chhatra League as a terrorist organization, High Commissioner Volker Turk mentioned that there have been extensive debates on the Terrorism Act. He expressed concern, noting that in many cases, dissidents or political opponents are often unfairly labeled as terrorists. “We have seen the potential consequences of this approach,” he added.
Volker Turk also expressed concern that due process was not followed in addressing several acts of violence, including the killing of journalists. He emphasized that this is troubling, as past injustices cannot be undone. Turk assured that he has discussed this issue with various parties and affirmed that the United Nations will continue to support Bangladesh in the process of establishing and reforming human rights systems.
During the July-August movement, several policemen were killed, yet no cases have been filed regarding these deaths. When asked whether investigating police killings is necessary for the establishment of human rights, High Commissioner Volker Turk responded that all killings, without exception, should be investigated and prosecuted to uphold human rights.
Regarding the possibility of opening a United Nations Human Rights Council office in Dhaka, Volker Turk explained, “I would like to open an office in every country, but due to financial constraints, this is not feasible. Therefore, we prioritize establishing offices in places where the need is greatest.”
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, arrived in Dhaka on Monday night for a two-day visit. After completing all formal engagements, he is scheduled to depart from Dhaka on Wednesday night.