Human Rights Watch reports targeting of academics and students in Bangladesh

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has raised alarms regarding the arbitrary punishment of academics and students at public universities in Bangladesh. The organization alleges that individuals are facing dismissals, suspensions, teaching restrictions, and expulsions due to their alleged ties to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League party.

According to HRW, these disciplinary actions are often linked to accusations of supporting the ousted government or opposing the 2024 student-led movement. The report notes that over 400 academics from 22 universities are under investigation for allegedly participating in a pro-Awami League Telegram messaging group.

Specific institutions mentioned include Dhaka University, Bangladesh Agricultural University, and Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University. HRW stated that such measures, if conducted without due process or based solely on political beliefs, violate international human rights laws regarding freedom of expression and association.