Protests Erupt at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology Over Police Violence

The Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) has been the center of significant unrest following police actions against students protesting for their rights. On August 27, students peacefully demonstrated, demanding reforms in the public service recruitment and promotion system for engineers. However, the police responded with excessive force, employing batons, tear gas, water cannons, and sound grenades, resulting in injuries to at least 18 individuals.

BUET alumni to protest police action on engineering students today

In response to the police violence, the BUET Alumni Association organized a human chain at the BUET Shaheed Minar in Dhaka on August 28. They condemned the police actions and called for accountability for those responsible. Ainun Nishat, president of the association, emphasized the need for proper evaluation and recognition of engineers to align with global standards. The alumni's statement highlighted the contributions of various engineering groups to national development and urged the establishment of an "Engineering and Technical Reform Commission" to recommend necessary reforms.

BUET alumni, civil society demand justice over attack on students

The police's response to the BUET protests has raised broader concerns regarding law enforcement's role in maintaining order. Critics argue that the excessive use of force reflects a pattern of arbitrary policing that undermines citizens' rights. This incident is part of a troubling trend, as highlighted by other recent events involving police violence against political activists, including the attack on Gono Odhikar Parishad president Nurul Haque Nur. Political leaders from various parties have condemned these actions, calling for accountability and reform in law enforcement practices.

Who stands to gain from arbitrary policing and legal abuse?Political parties condemn attack on Gono Odhikar Parishad president NurBUET alumni, civil society demand justice over attack on studentsBUET alumni to protest police action on engineering students today‘Complete Shutdown’ continues at BUET, students announce graffiti programme todayBangladesh Agricultural University: Students vacating halls, a section to continue movement

The BUET Alumni Association and members of civil society have issued statements demanding justice and reform. They called for an impartial investigation into the police actions and emphasized the importance of respecting the right to peaceful assembly. Political parties, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, have also expressed their condemnation of police brutality and called for immediate action against those involved.

BUET alumni, civil society demand justice over attack on students

Critics argue that the government's failure to address the grievances of the protesting students and the broader issues of police violence reflects a lack of sincerity in engaging with citizens. Observers note that the government's reactive measures often escalate tensions rather than resolve underlying issues. The need for meaningful dialogue with protesting groups is emphasized as essential for preventing further unrest.

Who stands to gain from arbitrary policing and legal abuse?

As protests continue, the situation remains tense, with students at BUET observing a "complete shutdown" to press their demands. The Engineering Rights Movement has called for similar actions across engineering universities, indicating that the unrest may persist unless the government takes proactive steps to address the students' concerns and reform law enforcement practices.

‘Complete Shutdown’ continues at BUET, students announce graffiti programme today

• “‘We express our deep regret over the recent incidents of police action against engineers,’ the statement said, urging the government to respect the right to peaceful assembly and take appropriate action against those responsible for the attack.” — Ainun Nishat, President, BUET Alumni Association

BUET alumni, civil society demand justice over attack on students

• “Its joint secretary general and party spokesperson Gazi Ataur Rahman said, ‘Such an attack on a frontline anti-fascist leader like Nurul Haque Nur is totally unacceptable.” — Gazi Ataur Rahman, Joint Secretary General, Islami Andolon Bangladesh

Political parties condemn attack on Gono Odhikar Parishad president Nur

• “‘We strongly condemn the attack on Gono Odhikar Parishad president Nurul Haque Nur, and its general secretary Rashed Khan and their activists.” — Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Secretary General, Bangladesh Nationalist Party

Political parties condemn attack on Gono Odhikar Parishad president Nur

• “It bears repeating that the primary duty of law enforcers is to protect citizens' rights, but in these incidents, they failed to do so.” — Civil Society Statement

Who stands to gain from arbitrary policing and legal abuse?

The ongoing protests at BUET highlight the urgent need for dialogue and reform to address the grievances of students and ensure the protection of citizens' rights in Bangladesh.

BUET alumni, civil society demand justice over attack on students