HRSS Report Highlights Concerns Over Public Safety, Political Violence and Human Rights

By Staff Reporter

At least 187 people were killed and 401 injured in 398 incidents of mob violence across Bangladesh during the first nine months of 2026, according to a report by the Human Rights Support Society (HRSS). During the same period, political violence claimed 73 lives and left 6,473 people injured, highlighting serious concerns over public safety and the protection of fundamental rights.

Released on October 19, the report was compiled from news published in 16 national newspapers and investigations conducted by the organisation between January and September. It identified allegations of theft, robbery, mugging, rape, hurting religious sentiments and attempts to establish dominance as reported triggers of mob violence.

The number of deaths attributed to mob violence was more than two-and-a-half times the number recorded in political clashes during the same period. The figures raise pressing questions about law enforcement, accountability and the effectiveness of measures to prevent violence.

Political Violence Remains a Major Concern

According to the report, 1,013 incidents of political violence occurred during the nine-month period, resulting in 73 deaths and 6,473 injuries. Of these incidents, 931 involved internal conflicts within the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) or clashes with rival political groups.

Internal conflicts within the BNP alone accounted for 342 incidents, leaving 40 people dead and 2,632 injured. Of those killed in political violence, 46 were affiliated with the BNP, eight with Jamaat-e-Islami and six with the Awami League.

More than 270 political cases named 5,809 individuals, while another 32,433 people were listed as unnamed accused. A total of 5,644 people were arrested, including 4,827 affiliated with the Awami League, according to the report.

Deaths in Custody and Attacks on Journalists

The report recorded 17 deaths in law enforcement custody or in incidents involving alleged torture, shootings and so-called “gunfights”. Another 10 people reportedly died while fleeing police pursuits. In addition, 95 inmates died in prison during the period.

The safety of journalists also remains a serious concern. According to the report, 518 journalists faced attacks or harassment in 288 incidents. Of them, 297 were injured and 20 were arrested. Fifty-one journalists were also named in 19 cybercrime cases.

Under cyber-related legislation, 113 people were sued and 55 arrested in 40 cases. The report further stated that 12 people were detained over allegedly objectionable posts about Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, while 24 were detained on allegations of hurting religious sentiments.

Violence Against Women and Children

The reported figures on violence against women and children are equally alarming.

According to HRSS, 2,404 women and girls experienced abuse during the nine-month period. At least 657 were raped, including 392 minors, while 130 were victims of gang rape. Another 29 women and girls were reportedly murdered after rape.

Domestic violence claimed the lives of 457 women, while 494 children died in 1,810 reported incidents of child abuse.

These figures underscore the urgent need for stronger prevention measures, effective investigations, victim