Dhaka, Aug 21 (V7N) – On August 5, 2024, in Ashulia, Savar, near Dhaka, six protesters were killed during a violent crackdown on the final day of the July Revolution. Investigators allege that police placed their bodies into a van, doused it with petrol, and set it on fire—possibly while one victim was still alive.
 
The incident, captured in a widely circulated video, shows a police vehicle engulfed in flames as officers stood by. The footage has fueled national outrage and drawn international condemnation.
 
According to initial findings, the six individuals were among hundreds injured or killed during mass protests against the reinstatement of a controversial quota system in public sector jobs. The demonstrations, which began on July 16 and continued until August 5, 2024, have become known as the July Revolution or July Massacre—one of Bangladesh’s deadliest civil uprisings in recent history.
 
Human rights groups, including the United Nations, have reported between 650 and 1,400 deaths during the nearly three-week-long crackdown. Tens of thousands were reportedly injured or detained during violent confrontations with police and security forces.
 
On July 2, 2025, the International Crimes Tribunal accepted charges related to the Ashulia killings, labeling them as crimes against humanity. Prosecutors claim that one of the victims may have still been alive when the van was set on fire.
 
At least eight suspects have been arrested in connection with the case. Seven have been formally presented before the tribunal.
 
Additional Context
 
Scale of violence: The July Revolution saw widespread protests across Bangladesh, initially led by students and job seekers. The government responded with aggressive tactics, including the use of live ammunition, mass arrests, and internet blackouts.
 
Legal developments: Human rights advocates have praised the tribunal’s decision to move forward with the case, marking a rare step toward accountability in state-led violence.
 
Symbol of brutality: The van-burning incident has become one of the most recognized symbols of the July crackdown. It is widely shared on social media and cited in global human rights reports.
 
Summary Table Event Details
 
Date and Location August 5, 2024 – Ashulia, Savar (near Dhaka)
Incident Six protesters killed; bodies placed in police van and set on fire
Allegation One victim may have been alive when the van was ignited
Legal Action Charges accepted by the International Crimes Tribunal (July 2, 2025)
Historical Context Part of the July Revolution (July 16 – August 5, 2024)
Death Toll Estimate Between 650 and 1,400+ killed during the uprising.
 
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