Published: 12:20 AM, 06 November 2026
Many Bangladeshi Students and Teachers Are Being Unjustly Punished: HRW
Human Rights Watch (HRW) on Wednesday deplored the alleged unjustifiable actions against Bangladeshi university students over their purported links with the ousted Awami League, raising concerns about violations of fundamental rights, academic freedom and the rule of law.
The reported actions, including the rustication of students from public universities without following due legal procedures and alleged unlawful harassment by police personnel, have intensified concerns about the protection of students' rights in Bangladesh.
The controversy has drawn attention to the importance of ensuring that political affiliations or perceived associations do not become grounds for arbitrary punishment. Rights advocates argue that universities must remain institutions where students can pursue education without fear of political retaliation, intimidation, or discrimination, HRW Asia Deputy Director Meenakshi Ganguly stated.
The reported cases of rustication have particularly raised questions about the independence and accountability of university administrations. Students facing disciplinary proceedings are entitled to fair treatment, a transparent process, and an opportunity to respond to allegations against them. Expelling or suspending students without adequate procedures could undermine their educational prospects and violate their fundamental rights.
Police harassment allegations have also become a significant source of concern. Reports that students are being subjected to questioning, intimidation, or other forms of pressure because of their alleged political connections have prompted calls for greater accountability among law enforcement agencies. Any police action against students must be based on credible evidence of specific wrongdoing and must comply with established legal safeguards.
Human Rights Watch has consistently emphasized that governments have an obligation to protect freedom of expression, peaceful association, and the right to education. These rights remain essential regardless of political circumstances. Allegations of political involvement cannot, by themselves, justify arbitrary detention, harassment, or the denial of educational opportunities.
Bangladesh's public universities have historically played an important role in political movements and national development. Students have contributed significantly to the country's democratic struggles, including movements demanding accountability and justice. However, the political significance of university campuses should not become an excuse for targeting students on the basis of their perceived political loyalties.
The ousting of the Awami League government has brought a changed political environment to Bangladesh. Nevertheless, a political transition should strengthen democratic institutions and human rights protections rather than create new opportunities for persecution. Students who supported or associated with a former ruling party should not be subjected to collective punishment.
University authorities must ensure that disciplinary measures are based on evidence and established regulations. Students accused of misconduct should receive written explanations of the charges against them, access to a fair hearing, and the opportunity to challenge decisions through appropriate channels. Rustication without due process risks turning academic institutions into instruments of political retribution.
The government also has a responsibility to ensure that law enforcement agencies operate within the boundaries of the law. Police personnel accused of harassing students should face impartial investigations, and any proven misconduct should be addressed through appropriate disciplinary and legal measures.
Observers say the situation highlights the need for independent university administrations, effective complaint mechanisms, and stronger safeguards against political interference in higher education. Protecting students from arbitrary punishment is essential not only for their individual rights but also for the credibility of Bangladesh's educational system.
Ultimately, the treatment of students associated with the Awami League will serve as an important test of Bangladesh's commitment to democratic principles. Human rights must be protected consistently, irrespective of political identity or affiliation.
Ensuring justice for students requires transparent investigations, respect for legal procedures, and an end to unlawful harassment. Without these safeguards, public universities risk becoming places of fear and political division rather than centers of learning, debate, and intellectual freedom.
