ASK Urges Immediate Steps to Stop Post-Election Violence
Dhaka, 16 February 2026 – Human rights organization Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has expressed deep concern over incidents of violence, deaths, and attacks on political opponents reported across different parts of the country following the 13th National Parliamentary Election and referendum, calling for immediate action to restore peace and protect citizens. In a statement issued on Sunday, ASK condemned the incidents and urged political parties and state authorities to take swift and effective measures to prevent further violence. According to media reports cited by the organization, at least two people were killed in post-election violence in Munshiganj and Bagerhat, while over 200 people were injured in attacks and clashes reported in districts including Sylhet, Cumilla, Narsingdi, Feni, Gazipur, Natore, Jhalakathi, Narail, Pabna, Bogura, Faridpur, Barguna, Jhenaidah, Chandpur, Patuakhali, Kishoreganj, and Dinajpur. ASK also expressed concern over allegations that a woman was raped during the post-election period, describing the incident not only as a criminal offense but also as a severe violation of human dignity and fundamental rights. The organization emphasized that protecting citizens’ lives, safety, and dignity is a constitutional obligation of the state. It stressed that ensuring the security of women, minorities, and socially vulnerable communities is a core responsibility of both the government and political leadership. ASK called on all political parties to issue clear instructions at the grassroots level to prevent acts of revenge, intimidation, land grabbing, assaults, and violence against women. Political differences, the organization said, can never justify violence or human rights violations. The rights body further urged law enforcement agencies and relevant authorities to conduct prompt, impartial, and credible investigations into all incidents and bring those responsible to justice. It also called for immediate measures to ensure medical, psychological, and legal support for survivors of sexual violence. ASK concluded by urging all parties to act responsibly to prevent further escalation and ensure peace and security in the post-election period.
Mob Justice Killings Double in January, Rise in Unidentified Bodies and Minority Attacks: MSF Report
Dhaka, 1 February 2026 – Manabadhikar Shongskriti Foundation (MSF) has expressed deep concern over what it describes as a significant deterioration in Bangladesh’s overall human rights situation, reporting a sharp rise in mob violence, unidentified bodies, custodial deaths, and attacks on minority communities in January compared to the previous month. According to MSF’s January human rights report, signed by Executive Director Saidur Rahman and released on Saturday, 21 people were killed in 28 incidents of mob lynching during January, nearly double the death toll recorded in December, when 10 people were killed in 24 such incidents. MSF described mob lynching as a serious criminal offense equivalent to extrajudicial killing, saying the growing trend reflects public distrust in the justice system and institutional weaknesses in law enforcement. The report also notes a worrying increase in the number of unidentified bodies recovered, with 57 bodies found in January compared to 48 in December, raising fears of enforced disappearances, violence, and extrajudicial killings. Custodial deaths also rose sharply, with 15 people dying in prison custody in January, up from nine in December. Additionally, two deaths occurred in law enforcement custody, and the organization said the continued rise in torture-related deaths indicates that custodial abuse remains a structural problem. Election-related violence was also highlighted as a growing concern. Political violence deaths rose from one in December to four in January, while injuries from such incidents increased significantly, suggesting that the electoral environment is becoming increasingly violent. The report further records a surge in attacks against minority communities. Incidents involving vandalism of religious idols, attacks on homes, and communal violence increased from four incidents in December to 15 in January, reflecting what MSF described as weaknesses in protection mechanisms for vulnerable communities. MSF also criticized recent legal actions, saying the number of accused persons in cases filed after political changes has increased unusually. Named accused persons reportedly rose from 30 to 120, while unidentified accused persons increased from 110 to 320, raising concerns about transparency, fairness, and possible misuse of legal processes. Executive Director Saidur Rahman said law enforcement agencies appear more focused on increasing accused lists in politically sensitive cases rather than preventing mob violence and ensuring public safety. He also expressed concern that some political narratives appear to justify mob violence instead of condemning it. MSF concluded that almost all major human rights indicators worsened in January, reflecting ongoing political instability, weak law enforcement, and a culture of impunity. The organization urged authorities to take urgent measures to restore rule of law and protect citizens’ fundamental rights.
Family’s Parole Plea Rejected Despite Tragedy, ASK Calls It a Direct Violation of Human Rights
Dhaka, 26 January 2026 – Ain and Salish Kendra (ASK) has expressed deep concern over the refusal to grant parole to Jewel Hasan Saddam, President of Bagerhat Sadar Upazila Chhatra League, who is currently detained at Jashore Central Jail, despite a formal application from his family to allow him to attend the funeral and burial of his deceased wife and nine-month-old child. In a statement, ASK said that allowing the detainee only to see the bodies briefly at the jail gate instead of permitting him to attend the Janaza and burial constitutes a clear violation of the Constitution of Bangladesh and international human rights law. The organization termed the incident as cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment. ASK cited Article 27 of the Constitution, which guarantees equality before the law; Article 31, which ensures the right to protection of law; and Article 35(5), which prohibits cruel, inhuman, or degrading punishment or treatment. As an under-trial prisoner, Jewel Hasan Saddam remains entitled to these constitutional protections, ASK emphasized. The human rights body also referred to the Ministry of Home Affairs’ parole policy issued on 1 June 2016, which allows prisoners and detainees to be released on parole for a limited time in case of the death of close relatives, including parents, spouse, and children. ASK noted that although parole is subject to administrative discretion, it cannot be rejected arbitrarily, without justification, or in disregard of humanitarian considerations. ASK further stated that the incident violates Bangladesh’s obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Article 7 prohibits torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment, while Article 10(1) requires that all persons deprived of liberty be treated with humanity and respect for their dignity. Preventing a grieving detainee from attending the funeral of his wife and infant child, after only allowing a brief viewing of their bodies, is fundamentally incompatible with these provisions. The organization said citizens have the right to know under which law, rule, or executive order the parole application was rejected. According to ASK, the rule of law requires not only lawful decision-making but also transparency, accountability, and disclosure of reasons behind decisions. The silence of the jail authorities and concerned administration, it warned, raises serious questions of arbitrariness and discriminatory conduct. ASK concluded that the precedent set by this incident is inconsistent with the values of a constitutional, democratic, and human rights-respecting state. It demanded a clear explanation and accountability from the relevant authorities and noted that the High Court has the scope to take suo motu action in this matter.
Enforced Disappearances Were Politically Motivated, Says Commission in Final Report
Dhaka, 5 January 2026 – The Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances has concluded that enforced disappearances in Bangladesh were primarily driven by political motives, according to its final report submitted on Sunday to Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus. The report was formally handed over in the afternoon at the state guest house Jamuna. Those present included Commission Chair Justice Mainul Islam Chowdhury, members Justice Md Farid Ahmed Shibli, Nur Khan Liton, Nabila Idris, and Sajjad Hossain. Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan and Principal Secretary to the Chief Adviser Sirajuddin Mia were also in attendance. According to the commission, a total of 1,913 complaints were submitted. After verification, 1,569 cases met the legal definition of enforced disappearance, including 287 cases classified as “missing and deceased.” Commission member Nabila Idris said complaints are still being received and estimated the total number of enforced disappearances could range between 4,000 and 6,000. She noted that many victims or their families either remain unaware of the commission, have relocated abroad, or are unwilling to speak on record due to fear. The commission stated that its data clearly establishes enforced disappearances as politically motivated crimes. Among those who later returned alive, 75 percent were affiliated with Jamaat-e-Islami and Islami Chhatra Shibir, while 22 percent were leaders or activists of the BNP and its affiliated organizations. Among those still missing, 68 percent were BNP-affiliated and 22 percent Jamaat-Shibir members. The report further claims evidence of direct involvement by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, her former defence affairs adviser Major General (retd.) Tarique Ahmed Siddique, and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan in several high-profile disappearance cases. Notable victims cited include BNP leader Ilias Ali, Hummam Quader Chowdhury, Salahuddin Ahmed, Chowdhury Alam, Jamaat leader and former Brigadier General Abdullahil Aman Azmi, Barrister Mir Ahmed Bin Qasem, and former diplomat Maruf Zaman. Commission members said the former prime minister personally issued directives in multiple disappearance cases. Evidence of rendition to India without legal process, the report noted, further indicates authorization from the highest levels of the state. Commending the commission’s work, Chief Adviser Professor Yunus described the report as historic. “On behalf of the nation, I thank the commission. What you have documented can only be described as monstrous,” he said, adding that the investigation required extraordinary resolve. He stated that the report documents how democratic institutions were dismantled to justify extreme brutality, warning that society must ensure such atrocities never recur. He directed the commission to present recommendations and future action plans, and called for the findings to be communicated to the public in accessible language. The Chief Adviser also instructed authorities to map all sites linked to extrajudicial killings and disposal of bodies, alongside detention facilities such as Aynaghar. According to the commission, investigations show the Baleshwar River in Barishal was the most frequently used site for dumping bodies, with additional evidence found in the Buriganga River and parts of Munshiganj. Commission members thanked Professor Yunus for his support, saying the investigation would not have been possible without his firm stance. They also urged the government to reconstitute the National Human Rights Commission and ensure long-term protection and justice for victims and their families.
Human Rights Situation Deteriorated in Bangladesh in 2025: ASK Report
Dhaka, 1 January 2026 – Bangladesh witnessed a concerning deterioration in its overall human rights situation in 2025, despite political transition and reform pledges by the interim government, according to a year-end report released by human rights organisation Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK). In its annual review, ASK notes that while 2025 was a politically significant year marked by the fall of an authoritarian government, formation of an interim administration, and promises of democratic transition, tangible improvements in citizens’ rights and freedoms remained largely absent.
Mob Violence and Extrajudicial Killings on the Rise: One of the most alarming trends identified in the report is the sharp increase in mob violence. ASK recorded at least 197 deaths due to mob lynching between January and December 2025, up from 128 in 2024. Victims included members of religious minorities, women, and marginalized groups, often killed on the basis of rumor or suspicion without due process. The report also highlights the continued practice of extrajudicial killings under labels such as “crossfire” or “gunfight.” At least 38 people were killed in law-enforcement custody or operations in 2025, underscoring what ASK describes as a persistent culture of impunity within security forces.
Custodial Deaths and Prison Conditions Raise Serious Concerns: Custodial deaths emerged as another major concern. ASK documented at least 107 deaths in prisons across the country in 2025, a significant increase from the previous year. Many detainees reportedly died due to lack of timely medical care, raising questions about state responsibility and compliance with constitutional and international human rights standards.
Freedom of Expression Under Threat: The report identifies 2025 as a particularly dark year for freedom of expression and media independence. A coordinated attack on the offices of The Daily Star and Prothom Alo on 18 December is described as one of the most serious assaults on press freedom in Bangladesh’s history. Journalists faced intimidation, physical insecurity, and operational shutdowns, with ASK warning that such incidents have created a climate of fear in the media sector. ASK further notes continued misuse of restrictive laws to harass critics, journalists, and opposition voices, narrowing the space for dissent despite constitutional guarantees of free speech.
Women, Minorities, and Political Rights: Violence against women, including rape, gang rape, online harassment, and so-called “moral policing,” remained widespread throughout the year. The report also records increased hostility against religious minorities and cultural institutions, reflecting growing intolerance and radicalization in parts of society. Politically, ASK raises serious concern over decisions that effectively curtailed political participation, warning that suspension of party activities and excessive use of executive orders contradict constitutional protections and undermine democratic pluralism.
Reform Promises Without Clear Roadmap: While acknowledging steps taken by the interim government such as forming reform commissions and ratifying international conventions ASK points out the absence of a clear implementation roadmap. The organization concludes that without accountability, institutional reform, and respect for the rule of law, structural human rights violations are likely to persist.
Call for Accountability: ASK urges the government to ensure impartial investigations into human rights abuses, hold perpetrators accountable regardless of affiliation, protect freedom of expression, and place human dignity at the center of the democratic transition process.
International Human Rights Day 2025: BLAST Calls for Impartial Investigations, Accountability of Perpetrators, and Victim-Centred Services, Compensation, and Rehabilitation
Dhaka, 11 December 2025 – On International Human Rights Day 2025, the Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust (BLAST) called for impartial investigations, accountability of perpetrators, and comprehensive victim-centred services, compensation and rehabilitation for all those affected by recent human rights violations. Referring to recommendations from the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights following the July mass uprising, BLAST stressed the urgency of ensuring family- and victim-centred support, as well as medical and psychosocial assistance. The organisation highlighted the need for fair and transparent inquiries into all incidents of violence occurring since the uprising, including politically motivated cases, mass arrests, mob violence, rising online and offline violence against women and children, harassment through misinformation, attacks on cultural workers such as Baul artists, fatal assaults on justice seekers in court premises, and incidents harming religious sentiments. BLAST acknowledged as a positive step the CID’s recent exhumation of bodies from Rayerbazar cemetery—undertaken to identify 114 unidentified victims of the July–August 2024 uprising—and urged authorities to ensure dignified handover and reburial of remains after autopsies and DNA collection. Citing Bangladesh Mahila Parishad’s latest findings that 636 incidents of violence against women and children occurred nationwide in the last three months, BLAST underscored the deepening insecurity faced by women, children and marginalised groups, as well as their growing obstacles in accessing justice. Upholding this year’s theme, “Human Rights: Essential in Everyday Life,” BLAST urged authorities to take effective, rights-based measures to protect constitutional rights and the rule of law, ensure immediate accountability for serious violations committed by state actors, prevent recurrence of abuses, and guarantee independent investigations, justice for victims, and full victim-centred support and rehabilitation.
165 People Killed in Mob Beatings Across Bangladesh in 10 Months: Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK)
Dhaka, 08 December 2025 – At least 165 people were beaten to death in mob attacks across Bangladesh between January and October 2025, according to data compiled by Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK). The alarming figures highlight a persistent trend of vigilante violence and the failure of communities to rely on lawful justice mechanisms. The data shows that Dhaka division recorded the highest number of mob-beating deaths, with 72 fatalities, accounting for nearly half of all cases. Chattogram followed with 28 deaths, while Khulna reported 17, and Rajshahi documented 13 deaths during the same period. In the northern region, Rangpur saw 7 mob fatalities, whereas Barishal and Mymensingh reported 14 and 10 deaths respectively. The numbers reflect deep-rooted issues such as distrust in the justice system, rapid spread of misinformation, and lack of community policing. We urged authorities to strengthen law enforcement capacity, improve public awareness, and ensure swift legal action against perpetrators to prevent such deaths. We also emphasised that no individual or group has the right to take the law into their own hands, and called for coordinated efforts between police, local administrations, and community leaders to stop mob violence.