Mob violence and lynching incidents are escalating at an alarming rate in Bangladesh. According to newspaper reports, at least 13 mob lynching incidents occurred in the first 10 days of August 2025, resulting in 9 deaths and 13 injuries. The Human Rights and Culture Foundation (MFS) reports that from January to July 2025, 78 people were killed in mob violence. Including the August incidents, the death toll rises to 87, with 266 injuries recorded during this period.The Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) states that from January to August 10, at least 111 people have been killed due to mob violence. On August 9, in Rangpur’s Taraganj Upazila, two individuals, Rupalal Das (40) and his nephew-in-law Pradip Das (35), were beaten to death on suspicion of theft. Rupalal was a cobbler, and Pradip was a van driver. They were traveling to a relative’s house to finalize a wedding date when locals attacked them, suspecting them of stealing a van. Rupalal’s mother, Lalicha Das, said, “They killed my son while he was returning home. I want justice.” On the same day in Madaripur, three people were beaten on suspicion of theft, with one victim’s eye nearly gouged out.
The rise in mob violence has been linked to weakened police operations following the July uprising and a culture of impunity. Sajjad Siddiqui, Acting Chairman of Dhaka University’s Peace and Conflict Studies Department, stated, “When a culture of impunity grows, people become violent toward each other. Post-uprising, both spontaneous and organized mob incidents have increased.” Analysis of the 13 August incidents shows that 8 were driven by theft suspicions, while the rest stemmed from extortion, prior enmity, or disputes.
A survey by the BRAC Institute of Governance and Development (BIGD), titled ‘Pulse Survey 3,’ revealed that 80% of people are concerned about mob violence. Additionally, 56% are worried about women’s safety, 61% about nighttime mobility, and 67% about harassment due to clothing.
Law Adviser Asif Nazrul noted, “The lack of police morale has hindered efforts to curb mob violence.” Human rights activist Noor Khan Liton emphasized the government’s lack of visible action and the weak role of law enforcement, stating, “From law enforcement to the judiciary, fear of mobs is prevalent. Strong government action is needed to address this crisis.”
