Civil society groups and notable figures have strongly criticized the recent acts of violence, calling for immediate action in the case of the murder of activist Sharif Osman Hadi and transparent updates on the investigation progress. In a collective statement endorsed by eight civil society entities and 46 individuals, they have also demanded independent inquiries into the attacks on various media outlets and cultural institutions. The group has urged for the apprehension and prosecution of those behind the incidents, as well as the implementation of robust security measures to prevent future occurrences.
Additionally, they have called for a thorough, time-bound investigation into the killing of RMG worker Dipu Chandra Das, stressing the need for justice and enhanced security for minority communities. The signatories have emphasized the importance of government support for Dipu’s family and have pushed for reformation of existing prevention and protection mechanisms to ensure better early warning systems and accountability for security failures.
Furthermore, the statement advocates for legal actions against individuals inciting violence through hate speech, both online and offline, and for enhanced safeguards for victims and witnesses. It also calls upon political leaders to denounce violence publicly, commit to peace, minority rights, press freedom, and electoral integrity. The group insists on disciplinary actions within political organizations against individuals involved in violent activities, irrespective of party affiliations.
The statement highlights a concerning decline in societal values and criticizes the lack of effective state intervention in addressing these issues. The recent incidents are seen as jeopardizing citizen security, freedom of the press, cultural spaces, minority rights, and electoral stability. The signatories express their dismay over the continuous attacks on independent media and emphasize the urgent need for state intervention to safeguard public life and credible elections.
The statement also addresses the targeted killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, describing it as a severe blow to the principles he stood for, particularly freedom of expression and media diversity. The signatories condemn the organized attacks on media offices and cultural institutions, underscoring the government’s failure to provide adequate security measures despite prior warnings.
In conclusion, the group warns that failure to take decisive action by the state, political entities, and civil society could lead to a deepening crisis in public trust, social stability, and the nation’s democratic progress. The signatories consist of various organizations including CSO Alliance, Naripokkho, and ActionAid Bangladesh, as well as prominent individuals like Sara Hossain, Asif Saleh, Rasheda K Chowdhury, Shaheen Anam, and Sultana Kamal, among others.