Bangladesh faces escalating political violence ahead of the February 12 election, with 11 deaths and 616 injured in January alone. Human rights groups warn of worsening law and order, rising attacks on journalists, and growing threats to electoral security.
Bangladesh is facing a sharp escalation in political violence ahead of its February 12 national election, raising serious concerns about public safety, democratic stability, and the integrity of the electoral process. According to data released by a Dhaka-based human rights organisation, casualties linked to political unrest surged dramatically in January compared to the previous month, underscoring a rapidly deteriorating law and order situation under the interim government led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus.
The human rights organisation Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) reported that at least 11 people were killed and 616 others injured in 75 incidents of political violence recorded across the country in January. This represents a steep rise from December 2025, when 18 such incidents were documented, resulting in four deaths and 268 injuries. The figures point to an alarming upward trend as election campaigning intensifies nationwide.
According to ASK’s findings, violence increased significantly after the election schedule was formally announced and campaign activities began on January 22. Between January 21 and January 31 alone, the organisation recorded 49 violent clashes, which left four people dead and 414 injured. Observers note that these incidents reflect heightened political tensions as rival groups compete for influence ahead of polling day.
The violence has not been confined to political activists and supporters. Journalists covering election-related developments have also been increasingly targeted. ASK documented 16 cases in January where journalists faced obstruction, intimidation, or physical assault while performing their professional duties. This marked an increase from 11 such incidents reported in December, according to Bangladesh’s leading English-language daily, The Daily Star. Media watchdogs have warned that attacks on journalists threaten press freedom and undermine transparency during a critical democratic process.
Expressing deep concern over the situation, ASK urged all political parties and candidates to exercise restraint and commit to peaceful campaigning. The organisation also called on law enforcement agencies to act impartially, protect citizens, and ensure that constitutional rights—including freedom of expression and political participation—are upheld throughout the election period.
Local media reports indicate that violence has intensified since campaigning officially began, with multiple constituencies witnessing shootings, stabbings, vandalism, and street clashes. Several of these incidents reportedly involved threats and attacks against political candidates as well as law enforcement personnel deployed to maintain order. The growing scale and frequency of such incidents have reignited fears over whether a safe and credible election can be conducted.
Election-related infrastructure has also been targeted in numerous areas. Reports suggest that campaign offices, temporary camps, vehicles, microphones, and even CCTV cameras installed at polling stations have been vandalised or looted. In some constituencies, these attacks have disrupted campaign activities and raised questions about the preparedness of authorities to secure polling environments.
Bangladesh has experienced periods of political unrest in the past, particularly during election cycles. However, analysts argue that the current spike in violence reflects deeper political fragmentation. Parties that previously aligned with the interim administration under Muhammad Yunus to unseat the Awami League government led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina are now locked in an intense struggle for power. This shifting political landscape has contributed to rivalries that are increasingly being played out on the streets rather than through peaceful political competition.
| Also Read: Rights Body alleges brutal attacks on Hindu Minorities in Bangladesh |
Security experts warn that if the violence continues unchecked, it could discourage voter participation, compromise election logistics, and damage Bangladesh’s democratic credibility both domestically and internationally. Civil society groups have repeatedly stressed the importance of dialogue, restraint, and respect for democratic norms to prevent further loss of life.
As the February 12 election approaches, pressure is mounting on the interim government and security agencies to restore order and ensure that voters can exercise their rights without fear. The coming days will be critical in determining whether Bangladesh can navigate this volatile period and deliver an election that is peaceful, inclusive, and credible.
