The violence across the country during the recent quota reform movement has resulted in the death of over 200 people, while thousands were injured. Many individuals who were not involved in the protests have also been shot dead in their homes or on rooftops. Allegations have surfaced that members of law enforcement agencies, in violation of established protocols, used lethal weapons to suppress the protests, leading to this loss of life. The issue is currently under intense scrutiny and criticism both domestically and internationally.
Legal experts and concerned parties assert that the use of such deadly force against ordinary citizens is a clear violation of the constitution and human rights. Typically, the police are expected to use batons, hot water, cold water, coloured water, tear gas shells, sound grenades, and rubber bullets to control protests. Firearms are to be used only when absolutely necessary, and even then, there are strict guidelines to aim below the waist.
Law enforcement agencies are equipped with a variety of weapons, but their use is heavily regulated. The use of firearms is permitted only in extreme situations, and firing in self-defense is restricted to cases where there is a just cause. Therefore, indiscriminate firing on unarmed protesters is unequivocally a violation of human rights. It is imperative that those responsible for these incidents be thoroughly investigated to determine the circumstances that led to the shootings.
Those who are issued weapons and ammunition must be accountable for every round fired, according to the rules. If found guilty of wrongdoing, they should be punished in accordance with existing laws. Additionally, if wrongful orders were given to lower-level officers from higher authorities, the circumstances behind such instructions must be investigated.
It is also important to remember that there are specific regulations governing crowd control. Even in the most critical situations, law enforcement must follow these rules. Failure to do so is a matter of grave concern. It is hoped that the government will conduct a thorough investigation and take effective measures to address this issue.
Ashikujaman Syed,
Research Assistant,
Bioinformatics Research Lab,
Center for Research Innovation and Development (CRID).
E-Mail: [email protected]
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