Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer and Opposition Leader in Parliament Dr Shafiqur Rahman has renewed calls for an independent and credible investigation into the 2013 Shapla Chattar incident, demanding justice for those killed during the crackdown.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, he urged the formation of a neutral and acceptable commission to thoroughly examine the events of 5 May 2013, and to ensure accountability for those responsible. He also called for exemplary punishment once responsibility is established.
Describing the incident as one of the most tragic and painful episodes in the country’s recent history, Dr Shafiqur Rahman said the operation against what he referred to as a gathering of religious people left a lasting impact on national conscience and stood contrary to democratic values, justice and human rights.
He expressed concern that more than a decade has passed without a transparent judicial process, arguing that the absence of accountability has deprived victims’ families of justice and contributed to public frustration.
He added that a continued culture of impunity would be unacceptable in any civilised society.
Reiterating constitutional principles, the Jamaat leader said the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression are fundamental rights in a democratic system.
He maintained that the use of lethal force to suppress such rights cannot be justified under any circumstances.
Dr Shafiqur Rahman stressed that establishing the truth behind the Shapla Chattar events is essential to ensure such incidents are not repeated in the future. He said accountability would strengthen trust in democratic institutions and rule of law.
Concluding his statement, he called on citizens to remain united in the pursuit of peace, justice, and humanitarian values, saying that resolving the long-standing grievances surrounding the incident is important for the country’s democratic future.
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