While the number of extrajudicial killings in 2024 saw a decline compared to previous years, such incidents have not ceased entirely, according to a recent report by human rights organization Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK).
The report highlights the failure to ensure impartial investigations and fair trials in these cases.
The annual report, which outlines the human rights situation in 2024, notes that instances of mob justice and lawlessness in the name of justice have also remained a cause for concern during the interim government.
Extrajudicial killings and custodial deaths
According to ASK, 21 individuals were victims of extrajudicial killings or died in law enforcement custody in 2024.
Of these, six were tortured in police custody, three were shot by police, and one committed suicide while in custody.
The report also documents deaths resulting from physical torture in the custody of RAB, BGB, joint forces, and other agencies.
Among these cases, 12 deaths occurred after the current interim government assumed office.
The report underscores widespread allegations of torture in law enforcement custody, often aimed at extracting confessions from detainees.
The absence of independent accountability mechanisms perpetuates a culture of impunity, ASK said.
Mob justice
Incidents of mob justice, where individuals are beaten to death by disorderly crowds, also surged in 2024.
A total of 128 people were killed in such incidents, with the highest number recorded in Dhaka division.
The killing of former Chhatra League leader Abdullah Al Masud of Rajshahi University in September drew significant criticism.
Masud, who was attacked and later succumbed to his injuries, had previously suffered a grievous assault in 2014.
July uprising casualties
The report documents casualties during the 2024 Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, mentioning that 858 people were killed and over 11,500 injured.
The deceased included women, children, students, workers, and political activists.
The movement also witnessed distressing incidents, such as children being shot dead in their homes during the July coup.
Attacks on religious minorities
Attacks on religious minorities were a recurring issue.
The Hindu community faced 147 incidents of vandalism, with 408 houses attacked, 36 set on fire, and numerous businesses targeted.
Additionally, Ahmadiyya community sites were attacked, resulting in the desecration of 92 idols.
Three members of the Hindu community and one from the Ahmadiyya community lost their lives, while at least 82 others were injured.
Indigenous rights violations
The report highlights continued human rights violations against indigenous communities in both plain and hilly regions.
Incidents of arson, looting, and violence against tribal families were recorded, with significant events occurring in Lama, Khagrachari, and Dinajpur.
The destruction of the only Sidhu-Kanhu sculpture in the country also drew public outrage.
Recommendations
ASK emphasized that it is the government's responsibility to uphold the promises made at national and international levels to protect human rights.
The organization called for prompt and impartial investigations into incidents of extrajudicial killings, disappearances, and torture; the prosecution of individuals involved in such acts, adhering to due legal process; and a collaborative effort between the government and civil society to ensure equal rights for all, irrespective of caste, creed, or class.
ASK said that a culture of impunity and fear, which has plagued Bangladesh for decades, must be addressed to ensure the rule of law and the protection of human rights for all citizens.