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The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has reported an increase in mob beatings in October, challenging government claims of improving law and order in Bangladesh.
According to the NHRC’s monthly report published on Tuesday, 26 people fell victim to mob beatings in October, up from 20 the previous month.
Among those attacked, 18 died while eight others were injured but survived, reports bdnews24.com.
On Monday, Home Advisor Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said, “Law and order has seen some improvement compared to before, but more progress can be achieved. It is not yet at a completely satisfactory level.”
“If you ask about the current law and order situation, it’s just satisfactory, but there’s room for further improvement,” he added.
However, the NHRC’s report indicates a deteriorating situation regarding mob violence.
This report was compiled from complaints and investigation reports submitted to the commission, as well as information published by various media outlets.
The report also noted a 91.67 per cent increase in child rape cases and a 46.67 per cent rise in rape incidents involving women in October. A total of 22 women and 23 children were victims of rape last month.
The report further highlighted cases of harassment through lawsuits based on personal enmity, political attacks, and violence targeting political activists.
BNP leader Md Sultan was killed last Wednesday in Chuadanga’s Damurhuda Upazila, due to clashes over local dominance. On Oct 3, Awami League leader Mostak Ahmed was reportedly killed in Gaibandha, with his family alleging that the motive stemmed from political rivalry.
The report also discussed cases filed in connection with the Anti-discrimination Student Movement, noting that individuals from various political parties, including the Awami League and BNP, along with journalists and ordinary citizens, were implicated in cases, citing information from media reports.
Meanwhile, the commission reported a slight decline in cases of torture and deaths in custody. According to the report, no incidents of forced disappearance were recorded last month, although some cases related to incidents from previous years were filed in October.
The report highlighted a surge in essential commodity prices last month.
It said, “Uncontrolled price hikes have left most of the country’s working class, low-income, and fixed-income individuals unable to meet their needs. As a result, people are deprived of their rights to a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Strict government oversight is necessary to control the market.”
The NHRC report also raised concerns over instances of negligence in patient care.
In Sherpur Sadar Hospital, at least 30 patients reported falling ill after receiving injections for various ailments, according to the report.
Additionally, pharmaceutical companies have raised prices for several medications this month, including antibiotics, pain relievers, vitamins, and medications for gastric issues and diabetes.
Medicine prices rose by a minimum of 5 per cent to a maximum of 40 per cent.