Professionals demand trial of Yunus over child deaths due to measles

A group identifying itself as ‘Sachetan Nagorik Samaj’ has demanded the trial of former interim government Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus and former health adviser Nurjahan Begum, alleging negligence linked to child deaths from measles.

The demand was raised during a human chain held at Dhanmondi 27 in the capital on Wednesday afternoon (May 13), where professionals from various sectors including doctors, teachers, journalists, lawyers, engineers and agriculturists participated.

Speakers at the event alleged that disruptions in routine immunisation programmes and vaccine procurement had led to a resurgence of measles infections, claiming that “millions of children were put at risk.” They also demanded compensation for families of children who reportedly died from the disease.

Organisers further claimed that measles had previously been largely under control due to support from international partners, but alleged that changes in procurement and cooperation agreements contributed to vaccine shortages. They cited figures claiming hundreds of child deaths and widespread infections, though these numbers were not independently verified during the event.

During the programme, speakers described the deaths as “preventable” and called for a “neutral and swift investigation” into the allegations. Some participants went further, demanding exemplary punishment for those they hold responsible.

The human chain was moderated by Sheikh Jamal, member secretary of the Nipironbirodhi Sangbadik Front. Among others who spoke were Prof. Dr. Jamal Uddin Chowdhury, former vice-chancellor Dr. Ahsanuzzaman, engineer Ataul Mahmud, advocate Shafiqur Rahman and other professionals from different fields.

Authorities concerned or named in the allegations have not yet issued an immediate public response regarding the claims made at the event.