The non-governmental organisation Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has condemned the recent mob killing of two Hindu devotees in Rangpur’s Taraganj Upazila, expressing serious concern over the deteriorating law and order situation in Bangladesh.
According to a press release issued on Monday, ASK reported that since January 1 this year, at least 111 people have been killed in incidents of mob violence across the country.
The organisation described such lynchings as alarming violations of the law, the Constitution, and international human rights standards.
The victims, 40-year-old Ruplal Das and 35-year-old Pradeep Das, were beaten to death by a mob on August 9 after being mistakenly accused of van theft. Pradeep, a van driver, had gone to Ruplal’s home to arrange a wedding date for Ruplal’s daughter.
While trying to find the way to Ruplal’s house in Ghanirampur village, the two were stopped by locals in the Bottola area of Taraganj-Kazirhat Road, who suspected them of theft and violently attacked them.
ASK highlighted that such lynching incidents are increasing, causing widespread fear and undermining public safety.
The organisation urged the government and law enforcement agencies to take strict legal action against perpetrators, provide compensation and protection to victims’ families, and hold accountable any groups involved in inciting such violence.
Emphasising the gravity of the situation, ASK stated, “Taking the law into one’s own hands and resorting to killings is a blatant violation of the rule of law and fundamental human rights. The Constitution guarantees every citizen’s right to life and legal protection, which were grossly violated in this case. This incident also contravenes international human rights law on the right to life and security.”
