The UN human rights body has urged all political actors in Bangladesh to make clear that violence is unacceptable and to avoid any statements or actions that could constitute incitement to violence.
"As the country heads towards elections, we call on all political actors to make clear that such violence is unacceptable and to avoid any statements or actions that could constitute incitement to violence," said the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights on Tuesday, noting that it is deeply concerned by a series of violent incidents during ongoing protests in Bangladesh.
As of Tuesday, several people have died in connection with protests in many parts of the country.
On Saturday, opposition protesters allegedly attacked the residences of the chief justice and other judges, and approximately 30 journalists were assaulted by them and masked individuals riding on motorcycles.
"We urge the police to ensure that force is only used when strictly necessary and, if so, in full compliance with the principles of legality, precaution and proportionality," said the leading UN entity on rights.
It urged the government to observe the greatest restraint to curb political tensions at this critical time and to take steps to ensure that human rights are fully upheld, for all Bangladeshis, before, during and after the elections.