September 30, 2025
DHAKA – Rights groups and political parties across the country have demanded an independent investigation into the violence in Khagrachhari that left three indigenous people dead and many others injured.
Human Rights Forum Bangladesh (HRFB), a platform of 23 organisations including indigenous representatives such as Raja Devasish Roy, Bangladesh Adivasi Forum and Kapaeeng Foundation, as well as other civil society groups, also called for a judicial inquiry into the incident.
“Protests may be held over any reasonable demands, but they must never be met with excessive use of force, nor turn violent. Law enforcement agencies and relevant authorities must act with restraint, responsibility, and respect for human rights, so that the safety of civilians is ensured,” the platform said in a press statement.
HRFB also stressed the need for justice, compensation for victims, and proper medical care for the injured.
Ain o Salish Kendra also called for a judicial inquiry to ensure evidence-based action against those responsible.
“If any excessive force was used during the incident, the government must investigate and take appropriate measures,” it said.
“We observe that tensions often flare up in the hill tracts, leading to loss of life and property. Since past incidents have not been properly investigated, it appears that such events are recurring,” it added.
In a statement, Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust said violence broke out between law enforcement agencies and demonstrators in Khagrachhari’s Guimara during what had been a largely peaceful protest and urged immediate legal action against those responsible.
Both ASK and BLAST are members of HRFB.
Meanwhile, the Rape Law Reform Coalition demanded immediate prosecution of those responsible for the rape of a schoolgirl, which sparked the protests in the hills.
The platform also called for security for the survivor and her family, adequate compensation, and stronger measures to prevent the recurrence of such violence.
Workers Party Bangladesh also condemned the violence in Guimara. In a statement, the party’s politburo criticised the “irresponsibility of the local administration and law enforcement agencies”.
It demanded that the perpetrators be brought to justice and that the government ensure peace in the hills and the security of indigenous communities.