TDS Desk:

Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has expressed deep concern and strong condemnation over the vandalism and arson at various locations across the country, including the attack on the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum at Dhanmondi 32 last night (5 February).

In a statement issued on Thursday (6 February 2025), the human rights organisation said such acts go against the rule of law, equal legal protection, and proper legal proceedings.

“According to international human rights law, everyone has the right to equal protection under the law…property rights and due process of law. The responsibility to ensure the implementation of these rights lies with the government. Otherwise, there is a scope to raise allegations of government failure.”

“According to media reports, calls for attacking the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum were circulated on social media throughout Wednesday. By 7:30pm, a group of student protesters gathered at the location and began vandalising the site, looting, and eventually setting it on fire. Reports indicate that although an army team was present, they did not intervene and later left the scene. The unrest soon spread to different parts of the country, leading to attacks on various properties,” the statement read.

ASK also expressed concern over reports that firefighters faced security risks while attempting to extinguish a fire at Sudha Sadan in Dhanmondi.

“ASK has always been vocal against actions that violate democracy and human rights. While we respect the principles of the July mass uprising, the current wave of destruction contradicts democratic and human rights values,” the statement read.

ASK urged the government and all relevant stakeholders to uphold the rule of law, human rights, and democracy. It also called for all actions to be carried out through proper legal channels.