Bangladesh : Catholic Priest Condemns Mob Violence and Moral Policing

One of the most alarming human rights violations in Bangladesh during 2025 was mob violence and killings. According to Ain O Salish Kendra (ASK), a national legal aid and human rights organization, at least 197 people were killed in mob attacks between January and December 2025. In 2024, the number was 128.

During the interim government period, the figure rose to 293. Many women, men, religious minorities, and marginalized groups were brutally murdered. Freedom fighters and members of the Baul community were also harassed and beaten. The Baul community in Bangladesh is a unique group of mystic minstrels known for their spiritual philosophy, music, and way of life.

ASK reports that in March 2025, a 19-year-old worker named Hridoy was tied with ropes and beaten to death by a mob on charges of theft in Konabari, Gazipur. On June 22, a mob in Lalmonirhat attacked a father and son, Paresh Chandra Shil and Bishnu Chandra Shil, a salon worker, accusing them of blasphemy. On the same day, former Chief Election Commissioner AKM Nurul Huda was humiliated by a mob who placed a garland of shoes on his head and circulated the video on social media.

Speaking to RVA, Fr. Anthony Sen, Parish Priest of Ruhiya Parish in Dinajpur Diocese and Convener of the Justice and Peace Commission of Dinajpur Diocese, said, “Since August 5, 2024, I have noticed a drastic rise in mob attacks. Groups are taking the law into their own hands instead of following the country’s legal system. They vent past and present anger on their opponents. Human rights are being grossly violated through this.”

He added, “Sadly, there seems to be no authority to control or stop these acts. If there were, such incidents would not occur so frequently. The decline in morality is fueling mob attacks. Humanity and respect are disappearing. This is not bringing peace to anyone. It must be stopped immediately.”

ASK also highlights the growing insecurity among women. Public beatings, insults, and physical abuse of women have increased. Cases of rape, sexual harassment, and domestic violence are now almost daily news. Hate speech against women and attempts to impose morality based on their dress or behavior, known as ‘moral policing’ are becoming more intense. This oppression has evolved into systematic violence, narrowing the path for women’s social, political, and economic empowerment.

Fr. Sen remarked, “Moral policing is another serious social problem. Women are its main victims. Parents cannot send their daughters anywhere without fear. Women face harsh words because of their attire and suffer sexual harassment. This must stop immediately.”

He expressed hope that, “When the national elections are held on February 12, and an elected government takes office, these problems will be resolved through honest political will. Therefore, an elected government is urgently needed.”