Survivors of the Shahbagh mob attack have published a collective statement detailing the violence they experienced after being targeted as “homosexual” near the National Museum area in Dhaka on April 10. The statement collected from one of the victims’ Facebook profiles documents the incident from the perspective of those attacked.
According to the statement, a group of around 70 to 80 people gathered under the banner of “Azadi Andolon,” openly calling for violence against queer and transgender individuals. The group reportedly issued threats demanding that those labeled “homosexual” leave the area before marching toward nearby individuals.
The survivors, who identified themselves as a group of friends, including queer and trans individuals, stated that they were sitting at a tea stall when they were approached, labeled, and attacked. They reported that women were physically assaulted, dragged, and subjected to attempts of stripping, while others were beaten, kicked, and struck with objects. Individuals were separated and assaulted, with injuries reported across multiple parts of the body.
The statement further alleges that despite the incident taking place near Shahbagh Police Station, police did not initially intervene, and later refused to formally register a case. Survivors also reported that individuals present as mobile journalists continued filming and, in some cases, contributed to escalating the situation.
After receiving medical treatment, the statement was made public, naming those present and calling for investigation, accountability, and safety.
Read the full statement here: https://bdfeministarchives.org/…/shahbag-mob-attack…/