NEW YORK: The Amnesty International has faulted the Bangladesh government for allowing violent groups to operate without any checks and accountability.

In a statement released here, it said the failure of Bangladeshi authorities to take decisive action against violent groups responsible for at least 10 killings over the past two months has created a climate of impunity.

“The brazen announcement by violent groups that they will continue targeting those they perceive as ‘insulting Islam’ should shake the Bangladeshi authorities out of their complacency,” said Champa Patel, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for South Asia.

“Ignoring the problem is not a solution. The authorities must categorically condemn these killings, carry out a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation, deliver justice for the victims, hold the perpetrators accountable, and protect those still under threat.”

Published in Dawn, June 7th, 2016