Kathmandu, Aug 17: The United Nations Human Rights Office has reported that approximately 650 people have lost their lives in recent violence in Bangladesh.

The UN emphasized the need for a fair and transparent investigation into the incidents of violence, arrests, and deaths in judicial custody, noting the high death toll.

A 10-page report released by the UN details the violence in Bangladesh, stating that nearly 400 people were killed between July 16 and August 4. An additional 250 deaths occurred during violence on August 5-6.

The UN Human Rights Office published this report on Friday in Geneva, highlighting that the victims included protesters, bystanders, journalists, and security personnel. Thousands more have been injured.

The report suggests that the actual death toll may be higher, as the collection of information has been hindered by curfews in several areas, and the government has reportedly restricted information from hospitals. The violence erupted in response to protests against reservation policies in Bangladesh, which began in June, and there have been allegations of human rights violations by security forces during these protests.

The report also documents incidents of looting, vandalism, and arson targeting religious minorities. The UN has called for the restoration of law and order in Bangladesh and stressed the need for accountability for those responsible for the violence.