12 Western Nations, EU Condemn Attack on Hero Alam

Twelve western nations in total, along with the EU delegation, denounced the attack on Hero Alam, an independent candidate for the Dhaka-17 constituency, on July 17 while voting was still going on.

The nations and the delegation also stated that violence had no place in the democratic process in a joint statement that was signed by their embassies and high commissions.

The declaration demanded that Bangladeshi authorities conduct a thorough inquiry and hold those responsible accountable. 

The statement added, "Everyone involved in the upcoming elections should ensure that they are free, fair, and peaceful."

Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, and the United States are among the nations that have signed the statement.

At the Banani Bidyaniketan School polling place during the by-election on July 17 in Dhaka, Hero Alam is said to have been thrashed by members of the ruling Awami League in front of the police. 

Hero Alam was the closest opponent to the AL candidate who won the by-election. 

The United States of America called for holding the attackers accountable earlier on Tuesday, and the United Nations in Bangladesh expressed worry about the attack.

International rights watchdog Amnesty International also condemned the attack on Hero Alam on Tuesday.