Is Political Violence and Attacks on Journalists Escalating in Bangladesh Ahead of Tomorrow's Parliamentary Elections?
Synopsis
As Bangladesh approaches its pivotal 13th Parliamentary elections, the nation is witnessing a disturbing rise in political violence and assaults on journalists. With reports indicating significant injuries and fatalities, the freedom of the press and the integrity of the elections are at stake. What does this mean for the future of democracy in Bangladesh?
Key Takeaways
Surge in political violence reported ahead of elections.
Attacks on journalists have escalated, raising concerns over press freedom.
ASK documented 58 incidents of violence in early February.
Significant fatalities and injuries reported among both citizens and journalists.
Call for a safe environment for voters to exercise their rights.
Dhaka, Feb 11 (NationPress) As Bangladesh gears up for its 13th Parliamentary elections set for Thursday, reports indicate a troubling spike in political violence and attacks on journalists nationwide, according to a human rights organization based in Dhaka.
The organization Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has disclosed that a minimum of 47 journalists encountered violence in the initial 10 days of February, compared to 16 in January and 11 in December 2025, raising alarming concerns over the increasing assaults on journalists reporting on election-related events.
A specific incident on February 7 saw 21 journalists from the online news outlet Bangladesh Times taken from their offices to a military facility and held for nearly two hours, which was characterized as a significant hindrance to press freedom, as reported by Bangladesh's premier daily, Dhaka Tribune.
ASK documented 58 instances of political violence across Bangladesh from February 1 to 10, resulting in at least 2 fatalities and 489 injuries. The organization noted that 49 violent occurrences in the last 10 days of January led to 4 deaths and 414 injuries, demonstrating a sharp escalation in violence in February.
Between January 1 and 10 this year, the rights group identified 8 incidents of political violence that resulted in five deaths and 26 injuries, while 18 incidents between January 11 and 20 caused 2 fatalities and 176 injuries.
ASK cautioned that the rising violence and intimidation directed at journalists poses a grave threat to the integrity of the elections.
The organization urged all relevant parties to uphold the rule of law and safeguard the constitutional rights to life and personal liberty for every citizen in Bangladesh. It also called for an atmosphere that ensures voters can exercise their right to vote freely and safely in the forthcoming election.
Recently, ASK recorded a surge in political violence in January, with 75 incidents resulting in 616 injuries and 11 deaths. This represents a notable increase from 18 incidents in December 2025, which resulted in 268 injuries and 4 fatalities.
The findings revealed that conflicts intensified following the announcement of the election schedule and the commencement of campaigning on January 22.
Bangladesh has seen a rise in attacks on media freedom and a decline in law and order since the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus took power in August 2024.
Point of View
It is imperative that we, as a nation, uphold our commitment to free speech and the democratic process. Every citizen deserves the right to voice their opinions and cast their votes without fear of intimidation or violence. As we navigate these challenges, let us strive for a peaceful and fair election that reflects the will of the people. Our nation’s integrity depends on it.
NationPress
8 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What recent incidents highlight the rise in political violence in Bangladesh?
Recent reports indicate that at least 58 incidents of political violence occurred in early February, leading to injuries and fatalities. Additionally, numerous journalists have faced violence, raising concerns about press freedom.
How many journalists were affected by violence in February?
According to Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK), at least 47 journalists were subjected to violence in the first ten days of February.
What actions has ASK called for to ensure fair elections?
ASK has urged all parties to maintain the rule of law and protect citizens' constitutional rights, ensuring a safe and free voting environment.
What was the trend of political violence from December to February?
Political violence increased significantly, with reports of 75 incidents in January leading to 616 injuries and 11 deaths, compared to only 18 incidents in December.
How does the current situation affect media freedom in Bangladesh?
The rising violence and intimidation against journalists pose a serious threat to media freedom, impacting the ability of the press to report on critical electoral issues.
