Asia Indigenous Peoples Network on Extractive Industries and Energy (AIPNEE)’s Post

🚨 Violent Attack on Indigenous Students in Bangladesh 🚨 🇧🇩 A violent attack was carried out against Indigenous students and rights activists outside the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) in #Dhaka. The violence followed protests against the removal of an Indigenous-themed artwork from textbooks. At least 13 students and activists were injured, some severely, following a confrontation with a group opposed to Indigenous recognition. 📢 The artwork, depicting a tree with leaves labeled Muslim, Hindu, Christian, Buddhist, and #Indigenous, accompanied by the message “Leaf-tearing prohibited,” was removed following intense pressure. ✊ Indigenous groups are demanding #justice, the restoration of the artwork, and equal recognition in the national curriculum. Nationwide protests are expected to intensify in the coming days. 🙏 We condemn the violent attack on Indigenous students in Dhaka, demand justice for the victims, and stand in solidarity with #IndigenousPeoples in their fight for recognition and equality. #Bangladesh #IndigenousRights #HumanRights