HRSS condemns killing of Satkhira youth over religious defamation, demands probe
The Human Rights Support Society (HRSS) condemned the killing of Wahiduzzaman Shamim in Debhata upazila of Satkhira after he was allegedly beaten repeatedly over accusations of religious defamation, including in a hospital where he was receiving treatment.
In a statement issued on Thursday, HRSS expressed deep concern and anger over the incident, saying the attack on a patient inside a hospital showed blatant disregard for the rule of law, human dignity and the right to life.
According to media reports, Shamim was first assaulted on October 13 and rescued by police, who admitted him to Debhata Upazila Health Complex. Later, a group of people entered the hospital, beat him and dragged him outside before assaulting him again. He died on the way to Satkhira for advanced treatment, the reports said.
HRSS said no individual or group had the right to subject anyone to mob violence, physical abuse or murder, even if they were accused of religious defamation or another offence.
The responsibility for dealing with criminal allegations rests with the courts and lawful authorities, the organisation said, adding that every allegation must be investigated and addressed through due process. Taking the law into one's own hands and punishing someone outside the legal system is unacceptable, it added.
The incident has also raised serious questions about the role of the authorities, HRSS said. Police had rescued Shamim after the first attack and admitted him to hospital, but a group of people later managed to enter the ward and assault him again.
The organisation called for an impartial and comprehensive investigation into how the attackers gained access to the hospital, what measures were taken to protect Shamim and ensure his treatment, and how those responsible for security responded to the attack.
It also called for an investigation into whether negligence, inaction or a lack of coordination among the authorities contributed to the incident. The roles of the police, hospital staff and relevant administrative officials should be examined, and those found responsible should face legal or departmental action based on the evidence, HRSS said. It cautioned against assigning final responsibility to any individual or institution before the investigation is completed.
HRSS further said that audio recordings or allegations circulated on social media, even if they fuel public anger, cannot justify taking the law into one's own hands. It urged the authorities to act promptly to prevent rumours, incitement and mob violence while protecting the life, safety and right to medical treatment of anyone accused of an offence.
The organisation outlined three demands following the incident.
It called for a prompt, transparent and impartial investigation into Shamim's death and for everyone directly or indirectly involved in the attack to be identified and prosecuted under the law.
It also demanded an investigation into how Shamim was taken from the hospital, the subsequent assault and the circumstances of his death. If evidence points to negligence, inaction or abuse of authority, the relevant police, hospital and administrative officials should face legal and departmental action, it said.
HRSS further called for security for Shamim's family and the legal assistance and protection they need to pursue justice. It urged the authorities to keep the public regularly informed about the investigation and legal proceedings to prevent impunity and maintain public confidence in the justice system.
The organisation stressed that the state has a fundamental responsibility to uphold the rule of law and protect human life and dignity.
“Allegations must be adjudicated through the law, not by a mob,” HRSS said, calling for a fair investigation, prosecution of those responsible and accountability for any negligence in the performance of official duties.
It said the authorities must demonstrate through their response that no individual or group in Bangladesh is above the law.