Representatives of civil society have strongly condemned the recent attacks on citizens in the capital’s Shahbagh, describing the incidents as “planned” and part of a broader pattern of violence against marginalised communities.
In a statement issued today (17 April), 370 signatories, comprising academics, human rights activists, artists, students and professionals, expressed deep concern over the incidents that took place on 3 April and 10 April in the Shahbagh area.
The signatories include economist Anu Muhammad; Khushi Kabir, coordinator of Nijera Kori; Shireen Huq, founding member of Naripokkho; Safia Azim, member of Naripokkho; and Geeta Das, organising secretary of Naripokkho, among others.
According to the statement, on 10 April, a group of individuals gathered under the banner of “Azadi Andolon” allegedly carried out a violent attack on a group of people “after labeling them as ‘homosexual’ and ‘transgender’; incidents of sexual harassment against women also occurred at the same time”.
Earlier, on 3 April, members of the hijra and transgender community were allegedly harassed and physically assaulted in the same area under the pretext of “mobile journalism”, the statement added.
Victims were reportedly surrounded, filmed without consent, and subjected to intrusive questioning.
The statement further alleged that eight members of the hijra and transgender community were detained and handed over to Shahbagh Police Station without any criminal charges.
They were reportedly denied legal assistance for two days and held in inhumane conditions.
The signatories criticised the role of law enforcement, alleging inaction and negligence despite the incidents occurring near the police station.
They also expressed concern over the lack of legal action against individuals identified in videos circulating on social media.
Describing the incidents as part of a wider trend, the statement said such attacks reflect ongoing hate campaigns targeting marginalised groups based on gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity and religion.
The citizens raised six demands, including accountability for the police officers on duty, a swift investigation, and punishment for those involved in the attacks, as well as a clear position from the state on protecting the rights of gender and sexually diverse communities.
They also called for action against extremist groups allegedly operating under the banner of “Azadi Andolon”, and for regulations to prevent harassment carried out in the name of mobile journalism.
The statement emphasised that all citizens, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, are entitled to equal constitutional rights, safety and dignity, urging the government to ensure these protections are upheld.
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