Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) strongly condemned attacks on quota reform protesters by ruling party student wing members and external attackers.

In a press statement released today, TIB demanded the attackers be identified and punished, calling for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

TIB Executive Director Dr. Iftekharuzzaman expressed outrage over the violence, including attacks on female students, and the reported death of a student in Rangpur.

He demanded accountability for the attackers regardless of their political affiliations.

Dr. Iftekharuzzaman expressed hope that protesting students would continue their peaceful demonstrations, upholding Bangladesh's legacy of student activism in rights-based achievements.

He urged the government to address the students' demands directly, instead of relying on the courts, and find a logical, constitutional solution.

TIB expects the government to protect the students' right to peaceful protest and avoid violence.

The organization also called on the ruling party and state leaders to avoid negative sentiments towards the protesters and urged the students to uphold the spirit of the Liberation War and patriotism.

The TIB chief further condemned the attacks on protesting students, calling them cowardly acts reminiscent of the Pakistani occupation forces.

He highlighted the institutional failure of educational institutions and the government's responsibility for not preventing the violence.

He also criticized attempts to blame the protesters and expressed concern over government officials inciting violence. The attacks were labeled appalling and unprecedented, and TIB demanded an immediate end to the violence and exemplary punishment for the attackers.

TIB concluded its statement by calling on all parties, including the government and law enforcement agencies, to exercise restraint and find a peaceful, constitutional solution to the quota reform protests.

The organization also urged the government to provide medical care for the injured, ensure the safety of students, and maintain an environment conducive to peaceful protests.