4 November 2002, Daily Star

Concern over deaths under army custody

STAFF CORRESPONDENT


Forty-two teachers of Dhaka University yesterday expressed deep concern over the "deaths under army custody" during the ongoing crackdown on crimes across the country.

In a joint statement, the teachers of different departments said that 18 people have so far died during army interrogation and violation of human rights are being reported by different media every day.


Terming the army "a symbol of independence and sovereignty" of the country, they urged the government not to use the army in petty interests or deploy them in any 'controversial' assignment.

They also said the law and order situation is deteriorating and people want to get rid of such situation. It is the responsibility of the government and the law enforcing agencies to ensure the security of lives and property of the people, they added.


The signatories to the statement include Dr Harun-ar-Rashid, Dr Muntasir Mamun, Dr AAMS Arefin Siddique, Dr Hossain Mansur, Dr MM Akash, Dr Sheikh Abdus Salam, Sharifullah Bhuiyan, Dr Sadeka Halim.