BNP Flags Mob Violence as Growing Menace in Bangladesh, Urges Swift Government Response

Dhaka: The issue of mob violence is emerging rapidly amid political turmoil in Bangladesh. Opposition party Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) said on Saturday that this trend could prove to be extremely dangerous for the country's social structure and democratic environment.

Statement of BNP General Secretary

BNP General Secretary Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said in an interview that intolerant forces have started raising their heads after the change of power last year. He alleged that some radical groups are openly saying that those who oppose Sharia law will not be tolerated. According to Alamgir, things like controlling women are part of the thinking that pushes society backwards, and they are contrary to a liberal democratic system.

Changed circumstances after change of power

After the political reshuffle on 5 August 2024, the picture of Bangladesh changed. The interim government led by Nobel laureate economist Muhammad Yunus banned the activities of Sheikh Hasina's Awami League as soon as it took office. After this, BNP emerged as the largest political party. But during this period, extremist ideas also got a boost, which deepened the feeling of insecurity among the common citizens.

Fear of threat to democracy

Alamgir said that liberal politics is being pushed back through a well-planned strategy in the country and extremist ideology is being strengthened in its place. He warned that if this trend is not stopped in time, the democratic structure will be deeply affected. According to him, mob violence is not just a law and order issue, but it is a serious threat to political stability and social balance.

Public opinion

A survey conducted by the BAC Institute has revealed that about 80 percent of citizens are worried about the increasing incidents of mob violence. This figure shows that common people are also considering this problem serious and are hoping to get rid of it.

This warning given by BNP shows that the path of democracy in Bangladesh is not easy. Violence, fundamentalism, and political instability have brought the country to a difficult juncture. All eyes are now on the interim government to see if it is able to find a way out of these circumstances or not.