Dhaka, Jan 19 (NationPress) Experts expressed grave concerns regarding the erosion of democratic principles in Bangladesh, citing an alarming rise in mob violence and increasing insecurity during a policy dialogue held in Dhaka. They highlighted that without the rule of law, political accountability, and genuine representation, the rights of minority groups in the country remain at significant risk ahead of the upcoming national elections on February 12, as reported by local media.

The roundtable, hosted by the Dhaka-based think tank Centre for Governance Studies (CGS), was titled 'Democracy for All: Minority Rights, Representation, and the National Election 2026'. It brought together representatives from various minority communities, civil society, academics, journalists, and human rights advocates.

Discussions during the meeting centered on the realities faced by minorities in Bangladesh, emphasizing the critical role of political parties in fostering safety, inclusivity, and trustworthy electoral commitments, as noted by the leading daily, Dhaka Tribune.

CGS President Zillur Rahman initiated the conversation by voicing concerns about the integrity of democratic practices as the nation approaches the February 12 election. He stated, 'Democracy signifies a system where the voices of minorities resonate, despite their smaller numbers,' urging the authorities to regard minorities as valuable assets and to protect their dignity.

Reflecting on the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, Rahman noted that despite collective independence, many minority communities still face uncertainty regarding their electoral participation and safety. 'Will minorities be able to vote securely? Will their representation be guaranteed? These questions remain unanswered,' he remarked, according to Dhaka Tribune.

Highlighting that minority rights are fundamentally human rights, Nirmal Rozario, senior vice president of the Bangladesh Hindu-Buddhist-Christian Unity Council, asserted, 'Minority rights equate to human rights. If minority rights are fully secured, then the question of human rights should not arise.'

Furthermore, Manindra Kumar Nath, acting general secretary of the Council, pointed out that minorities continue to face discrimination and insecurity throughout Bangladesh, raising doubts about the government's willingness to address their concerns. 'The government seems to lack the mindset to address minority issues,' he remarked, describing the situation as profoundly disappointing.

Several speakers issued warnings about the rising tide of mob violence and signaled a potential breakdown of law and order in Bangladesh. Jayanta Kumar Deb, president of the Dhaka Metropolitan Public Puja Committee, emphasized that the situation has escalated beyond mere discussion. 'Mobocracy is claiming the lives of minorities,' he stated, questioning whether it aligns with the principles of the Liberation War.

Under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, Bangladesh has seen an increase in violence against minorities, particularly Hindus, raising alarm among citizens and various human rights organizations worldwide.