The recent human rights statistics published by MSF have become a matter of serious concern regarding the overall human rights situation in Bangladesh. In particular, incidents of mob violence, the recovery of unidentified bodies, deaths along the borders, fatalities in custodial detention, and increasing pressure on journalists remind us that significant challenges remain in ensuring the protection of fundamental human rights.

As the Bangladesh Representative of the International Society for Human Rights (ISHR), I believe that the reported 69 incidents of mob violence in May, which resulted in 32 deaths and 71 serious injuries, are deeply alarming. In the previous month, 21 people lost their lives in similar incidents. This upward trend is not merely a collection of isolated criminal events; rather, it reflects a growing lack of confidence in the rule of law and an increasing tendency for individuals to take the law into their own hands. In a civilised and democratic society, allegations such as theft, attempted rape, or land disputes must be addressed through due legal process. Justice must be delivered by the courts, not by angry crowds.

It is equally concerning that members of law enforcement agencies have themselves become victims of mob violence. Such incidents raise serious questions about the effectiveness of law enforcement and the authority of the state. Furthermore, the disruption of a film screening in Brahmanbaria demonstrates that mob mentality is increasingly encroaching upon freedom of expression and cultural rights.

The recovery of 53 unidentified bodies during May is another matter of grave concern. The repeated discovery of unidentified corpses in rivers, on roads, railway tracks, and agricultural fields should serve as a warning sign regarding the state of law and order and the criminal justice system. It is the responsibility of the state to identify these individuals, determine the causes of their deaths, and ensure accountability for any crimes committed. Failure to do so risks further entrenching a culture of impunity.

Although the number of people injured in political violence decreased from 303 in April to 193 in May, with three fatalities reported, the situation remains troubling. Clashes among political parties and internal party conflicts continue to undermine democratic political culture. Political disagreements should never be resolved through violence.

The human rights situation along the country’s borders also demands special attention. In May, 10 people were killed and 13 were subjected to abuse along the borders with India and Myanmar, representing an increase compared to the previous month. In addition, 10 push-in incidents from India were reported. While border security is important, it must be maintained in accordance with international human rights standards and humanitarian principles. Reducing border-related deaths and abuses requires effective dialogue, cooperation, and accountability among the concerned states.

The deaths of seven prisoners in custody and the reported abuse of 34 journalists during May are also causes for concern. Although physical attacks on journalists have somewhat decreased, the rise in legal and institutional harassment poses a new and serious threat to freedom of expression. In any democratic society, an independent press plays a vital role in ensuring transparency and accountability.

In my view, despite signs of improvement in certain statistical indicators, the overall picture remains far from reassuring. Weak rule of law, persistent impunity, inadequate investigations into human rights violations, and the shrinking space for dissent continue to place Bangladesh’s human rights situation at risk. What is needed now is strong political commitment, independent and effective institutions, transparent investigative processes, and a visible commitment by the state to uphold human rights. Human rights are not the demands of any particular group; they are the fundamental rights of every citizen. Protecting those rights requires the collective efforts of the state, political parties, law enforcement agencies, civil society, and all stakeholders.

Hasan Hamid
ISHR National Associate & Country Representative in Bangladesh