Deaths from mob lynching in Bangladesh more than doubled to 128 in 2024

The number of people killed in mob lynchings more than doubled in 2024 compared to the previous year, according to a report by Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK).

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The legal aid and human rights organisation, in the report released today (14th of January 2025), said 128 people were killed in mob lynchings in 2024. 

Regional Breakdown of Mob Lynching Deaths in Bangladesh:

Dhaka Division: 57 deaths
Rajshahi Division: 19 deaths
Chattogram Division: 17 deaths
Khulna Division: 14 deaths
Barisal Division: 7 deaths
Mymensingh Division: 5 deaths
Rangpur Division: 5 deaths

Sylhet Division: 4 deaths

Extrajudicial Killings: 21 individuals were killed in extrajudicial incidents or died in the custody of law enforcement agencies in 2024.

Attacks on Hindu Community: There were 147 incidents of vandalism targeting houses, temples, and businesses of the Hindu community across the country.

Violence Against Ethnic Groups: The report notes incidents of human rights violations against ethnic groups, including the burning of houses belonging to 17 Tripura families in Lama upazila of Bandarban on December 24.

Sectarian Clashes: On September 18, a mob lynching in Khagrachhari led to clashes between Bengali and ethnic communities in Khagrachhari and Rangamati, resulting in four deaths.

Attacks on Indigenous Families: Following the fall of the previous government, unidentified individuals attacked about 70 indigenous families in various locations, including Rajshahi, Naogaon, Chapainawabganj, Dinajpur, and Thakurgaon, between August 5 and 7.

These findings underscore a concerning trend of escalating violence and human rights violations in Bangladesh, highlighting the urgent need for effective law enforcement and protective measures for vulnerable communities.

The consequences of mob lynching in Bangladesh are far-reaching, affecting individuals, communities, and the nation as a whole. Here are some key consequences:

1. Loss of Life and Emotional Trauma

• Human Cost: The most immediate consequence is the loss of lives, with victims suffering violent deaths. The families of those affected endure immense grief, and survivors often experience deep psychological trauma.
• Fear and Insecurity: Fear of being falsely accused or targeted in similar incidents grows, creating an atmosphere of insecurity and distrust in communities.

2. Erosion of Rule of Law

• Undermining the Justice System: Mob lynching is a form of extrajudicial punishment that bypasses the legal system. It encourages people to take the law into their own hands, undermining the authority of law enforcement and the judiciary.
• Increased Impunity: Mob violence often occurs without repercussions for the perpetrators, which may embolden others to engage in similar acts, creating a culture of impunity.

3. Polarization and Social Division

• Ethnic and Religious Tensions: Many mob lynchings have targeted specific ethnic or religious groups, exacerbating tensions between communities. This can lead to increased sectarian violence and social fragmentation.
• Community Fragmentation: It can cause mistrust and divisions between people, making it harder for different groups to coexist peacefully.

4. Human Rights Violations

• Vulnerable Populations at Risk: The rise of mob lynchings disproportionately affects marginalized communities, including religious minorities and ethnic groups, leading to further exclusion and marginalization.
• Undermines Civil Liberties: These incidents violate the fundamental rights of individuals to a fair trial and protection from violence, further eroding the country’s human rights record.

5. Deterioration of Public Confidence in Authorities

• Distrust in Law Enforcement: The inability of authorities to prevent or adequately respond to mob violence fosters distrust in law enforcement agencies and the government.
• Ineffectiveness of Law Enforcement: The government’s failure to address the root causes of mob lynching or prosecute those responsible can signal a lack of effective governance and accountability.

6. Negative Impact on National Image

• International Condemnation: The widespread nature of mob lynchings in Bangladesh can lead to international criticism, affecting the country’s reputation and relations with other nations and human rights organizations.
• Potential for Economic Consequences: A reputation for violence and instability could deter foreign investment, tourism, and international partnerships.

7. Humanitarian Concerns

• Displacement of Communities: Escalating mob violence can force vulnerable communities, especially ethnic minorities and indigenous groups, to flee their homes in search of safety, leading to internal displacement and refugee-like conditions.
• Lack of Justice and Accountability: Without proper legal recourse, victims' families are denied justice, which could result in continued cycles of violence and retribution.

8. Weakening Social Cohesion

• Loss of Social Trust: Mob lynchings foster a sense of distrust within communities, making people suspicious of each other and diminishing social cohesion. This weakens the social fabric and inhibits efforts to build solidarity.
• Radicalization: When groups feel excluded or persecuted, they may resort to radical measures or retaliatory violence, further destabilizing the social order.

Conclusion:

The consequences of mob lynching in Bangladesh go beyond the immediate violence, creating long-term challenges for the country. Effective reforms are needed to restore faith in the justice system, protect human rights, and foster unity among diverse communities. Addressing these issues requires strong legal action, community engagement, and improved governance to reduce mob violence and its harmful effects on society.