At least 197 people were killed in incidents of mob violence and serious human rights violations across Bangladesh in 2025, according to a report published Wednesday by human rights organization Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK).
The report highlights that men, women, religious minorities, and marginalized groups were among the victims, many of whom were subjected to brutal attacks and humiliating treatment, including being forced to wear garlands of shoes.
Dhaka tops list
ASK’s analysis shows that the highest number of mob violence-related deaths occurred in Dhaka district (27), followed by Gazipur (17), Narayanganj (11), Chittagong (9), Comilla (8), Mymensingh (6), Barisal (6), Noakhali (6), Gaibandha (6), Shariatpur (6), Lakshmipur (5), Sirajganj (5), Tangail (5), Narsingdi (4) and Jessore (4).
A month-by-month review indicates that mob lynchings peaked in August and September, with victims including ordinary citizens and, in some cases, leaders and activists from various political parties. Among the 2025 victims were seven members of the Hindu minority community, three women, and one visually impaired person, highlighting the disproportionate impact on socially vulnerable groups.
Drivers of violence
ASK’s report identifies political differences, religious extremism, rumors, and attempts to assert local dominance as the main drivers of mob attacks. Groups operating under the banner of “Tawhidi Janata” vandalized historically significant sites and cultural centers, while women and dissenting voices were harassed.
Notable incidents
- March, Gazipur: 19-year-old worker Hridoy was accused of theft in Konabari, tied with ropes, and beaten to death by a mob.
- June, Lalmonirhat: Salon worker Paresh Chandra Shil and his son Bishnu were assaulted following allegations of religious defamation. On the same day, former Chief Election Commissioner AKM Nurul Huda was attacked, forced to wear a garland of shoes, and the incident circulated on social media.
- August 9, Rangpur: Rupalal Das (40), a cobbler, and Pradip Das (35), a van driver, were beaten to death in Taraganj upazila on suspicion of van theft. Police were present but reportedly took no action.
- August 22, Chittagong: A 15-year-old boy, Md Rehan Uddin, also known as Mahin, was killed and two other teenagers seriously injured in Fatikchhari while returning from a relative’s house. Families allege influential local figures led the attack, which stemmed from prior disputes and local power struggles rather than mere theft suspicion. Victims’ relatives who intervened were also assaulted.
ASK’s report underscores that mob violence continues to be a serious human rights concern in Bangladesh, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations and communities across the country.
