Deaths from Mob Violence Rise from 10 to 21 in January, Rights Group Warns

The Human Rights Culture Foundation (MSF) has expressed deep concern over the severe deterioration of the country’s overall human rights situation. According to the organization’s latest report, the number of deaths caused by mob violence doubled in January compared to December. At the same time, incidents involving the recovery of unidentified bodies and persecution of minorities increased at an alarming rate.

These findings were revealed in MSF’s January human rights report, signed by its Executive Director Saidur Rahman, on Saturday (31 January).

Mob Violence and Impunity

The report states that 21 people were killed in 28 incidents of mob violence in January. In December, 10 people were killed in 24 such incidents. MSF considers killing through mob violence to be a serious criminal offense and effectively a form of extrajudicial killing. The growing trend reflects public distrust in the justice system and deep-rooted institutional weaknesses.

Unidentified Bodies and Custodial Deaths

According to MSF data, 57 unidentified bodies were recovered in January, compared to 48 in December. This rising number of unidentified bodies is reinforcing fears of enforced disappearances, violence, and extrajudicial killings in society. Additionally, deaths in prison custody increased from 9 to 15, while 2 people died in the custody of law enforcement agencies. MSF noted that the increase in deaths due to torture compared to December clearly indicates that custodial torture remains a structural problem.

Political and Electoral Violence

MSF identified electoral violence as one of the most serious crises in January. The report states that the number of people killed in political violence rose from 1 to 4, while the number of injured also increased significantly. This demonstrates that the electoral process is effectively moving toward deadly conflict.

Minority Persecution and Communal Situation

The situation regarding attacks on minorities was also alarming. While four incidents of minority persecution were recorded in December, the number rose to 15 in January. The resurgence of idol vandalism, arson attacks on homes, and communal violence highlights the weakness of state protection mechanisms, according to MSF.

Criticism of Legal Cases and the Role of Police

The report notes that the number of accused individuals in cases filed after the fall of the government has been increased at an abnormal rate. In January, the number of named accused rose from 30 to 120, while the number of unnamed accused increased from 110 to 320. MSF stated that this raises serious questions about the transparency and fairness of legal processes and indicates a trend of political retaliation and mass litigation.

Statement by the Executive Director

MSF Executive Director Saidur Rahman said, “Ensuring improved law and order and safeguarding lives and property are the core responsibilities of the forces. However, we observe that in January, the police have prioritized increasing the number of accused in cases filed against leaders and activists of the Awami League (activities banned) and its allied organizations.” He further alleged that instead of taking steps to prevent mob violence, some quarters of the government are attempting to justify it, which is extremely concerning.

According to MSF, negative trends were observed across nearly all major human rights indicators in January, clearly reflecting the continued impact of political instability and a culture of impunity.