Some 650 people, including at least 32 children, were killed in the student movement in Bangladesh between 16 July and 11 August, says to a preliminary report of the United Nations Commission on Human Rights.
The UN rights body published today (16 August), saying, "According to available public reports by media and the protest movement itself, between 16 July and 11 August, more than 600 people were killed. Of these, nearly 400 deaths were reported from 16 July to 4 August, while around 250 people were reportedly killed following the new wave of protests between 5 and 6 August.
"The number of reported killings in revenge attacks since that time still remains to be determined. A number of deaths were reported between 7 and 11 August, including those who died while undergoing medical treatment for injuries sustained in the violence," it reads.
"Those killed include protesters, bystanders, journalists covering the events and a number of members of the security force. Thousands of protesters and bystanders have been injured, with hospitals overwhelmed by the influx of patients. The reported death toll is likely an underestimate, as information collection has been hindered by restrictions on movement due to the curfew and the internet shutdown. Furthermore,
hospitals were reportedly prevented by State authorities from providing details of those killed and injured," the report adds.
Mentionable, the Awami League government, just three days before its ouster, on August 3 said it has on information right now about deaths of 32 children.
On August 2, UNICEF South Asia Regional Director Sanjay Wijesekera said that at least 32 children were killed in Bangladesh during unrest centring the student protests in July with many more injured and detained.
