Human Rights Day 2024: A Global Call to Address Escalating Violations Against Bangladesh's Minority Communities

Locations: Dhaka, Bangladesh, and San Jose, USA
Date: December 10, 2024

On this Human Rights Day, the Human Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities (HRCBM) reflects on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), which asserts that "all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights." Tragically, in Bangladesh, these fundamental rights are systematically denied to minority communities.

Recent events have highlighted severe human rights violations, including:

Arbitrary Arrests and False Charges: The arrest of Hindu leader Chinmoy Krishna Brahmachari on fabricated sedition charges. Despite clear evidence of peaceful advocacy for minority protection, he has been denied bail. A communalized atmosphere in the Chattogram judiciary has further eroded trust in fair proceedings.

Sexual Violence: Minority women and girls are subjected to gang rapes, with perpetrators often acting with impunity.
Abductions and Forced Conversions: Individuals from minority backgrounds are abducted and coerced into converting religions against their will.
Murders and Looting: Targeted killings, looting, arson, and the pillaging of minority-owned homes, businesses, and temples are alarmingly frequent.

Appeal to the Government of Bangladesh
HRCBM calls on the Government of Bangladesh to:

End Arbitrary Arrests and Communal Bias: Ensure the immediate release of falsely accused individuals, including Chinmoy Krishna Brahmachari. Address communal influences within the judiciary and protect the rule of law.
Investigate and Prosecute Crimes: Launch impartial investigations into all reported human rights violations and prosecute the perpetrators.
Protect Minority Rights: Uphold constitutional commitments to safeguard the rights, dignity, and safety of all minority groups.

Appeal to the International Community

HRCBM urgently appeals to the international community to:

Hold Bangladesh Accountable: Urge the Government of Bangladesh to adhere to its obligations under international human rights treaties and conventions.
Intervene on Behalf of Victims: Mobilize diplomatic and humanitarian efforts to protect minority communities and prevent further atrocities.
Support Justice Initiatives: Advocate for international investigations into potential genocidal crimes under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, as well as under Articles 6 and 5 of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court.
On this Human Rights Day, HRCBM reaffirms its commitment to fighting for justice, equality, and the protection of human rights for all. With operations in Dhaka and San Jose, HRCBM continues to advocate for marginalized communities both locally and globally.

2200 Eastridge Loop #731192
San Jose, CA 95148

Press Contact: Dhiman Chowdhury
info@hrcbm.org
+1-408-464-6804
2200 Eastridge Loop #731192
San Jose, CA 95148
https://www.hrcbm.org

The Human Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities (HRCBM) is dedicated to promoting and protecting the rights of minority communities in Bangladesh. Through advocacy, education, and community engagement, HRCBM strives to build a just and inclusive society. HRCBM is a proud member of the World Alliance of Non-Governmental Organizations (WANGO), holds special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), and is an active member of the Coalition for the International Criminal Court (CICC). These affiliations underscore HRCBM's commitment to addressing human rights violations at both national and international levels, leveraging its global partnerships to amplify the voices of marginalized communities.

This release was published on openPR.