The law and order situation has deteriorated in various parts of the country since the announcement of the schedule for the 13th national parliamentary elections, raising concerns among ordinary citizens about their safety.
Political programs, counter-rallies, clashes, arson attacks and killings have intensified in recent days, fuelling fears that the election environment is becoming increasingly volatile.
Observers say election-related tension following schedule announcements is not new in Bangladesh. However, they note that the current situation is more alarming than in previous election cycles.
On December 12, a day after the election schedule was announced, Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inqilab Manch and a potential candidate for the Dhaka-8 constituency, was shot in the capital. After receiving initial treatment in Bangladesh, he was flown to Singapore, where he died on the night of December 18.
Following his death, protests and violent incidents spread across the country. In several districts, houses belonging to Awami League leaders and activists were attacked and set on fire. Media outlets and cultural institutions were also targeted in incidents of vandalism and arson.
Beyond politically linked violence, a series of brutal crimes have further heightened public anxiety. In the past 48 hours, a child was burned to death after a locked house was set on fire in Lakshmipur, while a young man was beaten and burned to death in Mymensingh.
Police said they are investigating whether the Lakshmipur incident was a planned murder, adding that multiple aspects are being examined.
The Mymensingh incident has drawn particular outrage. A 27-year-old man, Dipu Chandra Das, was allegedly beaten to death in Bhaluka on accusations of insulting Islam, after which his body was set on fire. Law enforcement agencies said several people have been arrested in connection with the incident.
Experts warn of instability
Dr Md Touhidul Haque, associate professor and criminologist at the Institute of Social Welfare and Research, Dhaka University, said the sudden deterioration in law and order was deeply concerning.
“Political differences and ideological conflicts are normal. But when these are exploited to justify violence, arson and killings, election-time stability is seriously threatened,” he said.
He added that the situation could still be brought under control through strict enforcement of the law, warning that any laxity by law enforcement agencies could embolden criminals.
Law enforcement response
Wing Commander MZM Intekhab Chowdhury, director of the Rapid Action Battalion’s (RAB) Law and Media Wing, said intelligence surveillance and operational activities were ongoing nationwide to maintain order.
“Currently, around 200 patrol teams are deployed across the country. Several individuals have already been arrested on charges of violence and sabotage,” he said, adding that seven suspects have been arrested in connection with the Mymensingh incident.
Inspector General of Police Baharul Alam said the police are fully prepared ahead of the elections. On December 15, he held a meeting with European Union Ambassador Michael Miller, where police preparedness for election security and the protection of international observers was discussed.
Election Commission stance
Responding to concerns over law and order, Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud said the Election Commission will hold a meeting on Sunday with the heads of various law enforcement agencies.
“We will discuss the issue with due importance so that incidents like those already witnessed do not recur,” he said. “Our goal is to ensure an environment where voters can cast their ballots freely and safely.”
He added that such incidents were “not desirable in any way” and that law enforcement agencies would be instructed to act with greater supervision, caution and responsibility.
“The forces will remain more vigilant going forward to prevent any sudden attacks or acts of chaos,” the election commissioner said.