Political Violence Intensifies Ahead of Bangladesh Election: 11 Killed, 616 Injured

As the Thirteenth National Parliamentary Election draws closer, the country’s political arena is increasingly turning into a field of conflict and violence. Human rights organization Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) says that incidents of political violence increased alarmingly in January, reaching a severe level. In just one month, at least 11 people were killed and 616 injured in 75 clashes across the country, directly calling into question the environment for a free and fair election.

In a statement published on Tuesday (February 3), ASK said that compared to December, violence increased severalfold in January. While 4 people were killed and 268 injured in 18 incidents in December 2025, the number rose to 75 incidents in January. In other words, the rate of violence jumped abnormally within just one month.

According to the organization’s analysis, the situation spiraled further out of control after the start of election campaigning. In the first 10 days of January, 5 people were killed in 8 incidents, while in the last 10 days of the month (January 21–31), 414 people were injured and 4 killed in 49 clashes. ASK says that as election day approaches, political competition is increasingly turning into deadly confrontations.

The organization believes that such violence poses a major threat not only to political stability but also to citizens’ fundamental rights and security. The right to life and personal liberty guaranteed under Article 32 of the Constitution is effectively coming under threat.

The report also mentions an increase in attacks and harassment against journalists. While 11 journalists were attacked or obstructed in December, the number rose to 16 in January. According to ASK, intimidating the media undermines electoral transparency and accountability.

The organization warned that under conditions of violence and fear, an acceptable election is by no means possible. Irresponsible behavior by political parties and a lack of effective control are making the situation even more dangerous. If strict measures are not taken immediately, there are fears that the situation could deteriorate further in the coming days.

ASK has called on all concerned parties to exercise restraint and responsibility, and has demanded that law enforcement agencies play a neutral and firm role so that voters can exercise their right to vote in a safe environment.