Mob Fury in Bangladesh: 220 Dead, 230 Attacks in 13 Months

Mob or group violence in Bangladesh continues unabated despite stern government warnings and alerts from the army chief. Human rights organizations report that at least 220 people have been killed in the 13 months since the current government took office. From March to August this year alone, 230 mob violence incidents were recorded, resulting in 79 deaths and 265 serious injuries.

The latest incident occurred on Thursday in Homna, Comilla, where a group attacked the shrine of Kafil Uddin Shah over allegations of religious disrespect, vandalizing statues and setting fire to property.

Earlier, on September 5, Russell Molla (28) was killed in an attack at Nura Paglar Darbar Sharif in Goalanda, Rajbari. His body was reportedly exhumed and burned in the streets by a mob. Law enforcement’s inaction and lax measures have contributed to the recurring nature of these violent events.

Dr. Touhidul Haque, Associate Professor at the Institute of Social Welfare and Research, Dhaka University, said, “Exhuming a corpse and setting it on fire is not an isolated event. It reflects moral decay, weak law enforcement, and disturbing public sentiment. If the state fails to act firmly, public trust will continue to erode.”

Incidents have also occurred in Tangail, Natore, and Patuakhali, targeting farmers, laborers, teachers, and suspected criminals. Foreign nationals, businessmen, and police officers have also been victims. Many attackers identify themselves as members of “Tauhidi Janata.”

A survey by Voice for Reform and BRAC Institute of Governance and Development (BIGD) shows that 80% of the population is concerned about mob violence, with 56% worried about women’s safety and 61% about nighttime mobility. Fear and uncertainty are increasing due to police inaction and lax response.

Human rights groups warn that mob violence is a serious threat to social security and law enforcement, violating international human rights standards. The government must take strict action against perpetrators.

Data from the Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) indicates a rising trend: 128 people killed in mob attacks in 2024, 51 in 2023, 36 in 2022, 28 in 2021, and 35 in 2020.

Experts emphasize urgent measures to maintain social order, strengthen police action, and ensure public safety. Mob violence is increasingly seen as a major threat to national peace and security, requiring decisive state action and active civic engagement.