India criticized a UN report on Bangladesh at the UN Human Rights Council, claiming it mainstreamed “revenge violence against minorities.” During discussions in Geneva, UN Chief Türk indicated the report aimed for accountability and reconciliation. The allegations against Former PM Hasina were noted, while India emphasized a need for deeper societal changes for true reconciliation amidst ongoing unrest and violence.
On March 5, India criticized a UN fact-finding report on Bangladesh during a session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva. Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar engaged in discussions regarding Bangladesh with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy at Chevening House. India contended that the report inappropriately mainstreamed the notion of “revenge violence against minorities.”
UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk referred to the report as a significant means for achieving accountability. He expressed hope that it could foster reconciliation in Bangladesh amid ongoing unrest following the removal of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Türk affirmed support for the interim authorities aiming for an inclusive process grounded in human rights.
The report implicated former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and senior leaders in severe human rights violations during last year’s student protests. India’s representative, Anupama Singh, voiced concerns about legitimizing violence against minorities and criticized the essential concept of “mobocracy.” She emphasized that true reconciliation necessitates fundamental societal changes beyond superficial solutions.
The report highlighted a political vacuum resulting from Hasina’s departure, which fostered violence against minorities driven by various motivations, including religious and ethnic biases. It acknowledged the complexities of verifying the extent of violence against minority groups and suggested that misinformation impeded comprehension of the situation.
In a related meeting, Minister Jaishankar and Secretary Lammy discussed various regional and global issues, including the need for a peaceful and democratic future for Bangladesh. The UK Foreign Secretary had previously advocated for a fully independent investigation into the recent events in Bangladesh and welcomed action towards peace. Despite speculation regarding Hasina’s potential asylum in the UK, she currently remains in India following political turmoil in Bangladesh.
The article outlines India’s response to a UN report on Bangladesh, highlighting concerns about the portrayal of violence against minorities. India’s representatives criticized the report’s framing while emphasizing the need for genuine reconciliation amidst ongoing violence and political instability. The dialogue between India and the UK showcases international concern for stability in the region, particularly regarding Bangladesh’s future.
Original Source: m.thewire.in
