14 killed in political violence in March: MSF

A total of 14 people were killed in political violence across the country in March, according to a report by Human Rights Culture Foundation (MSF). In February, only two deaths were recorded from such violence, meaning March saw a more than threefold increase in fatalities.

The foundation compiles monthly human rights reports based on news reports published in various newspapers and its own investigations. The March report was sent to the media on Tuesday, March 31.

Political violence on the rise
MSF said political violence has increased following the 13th parliamentary election. Most incidents of violence were linked to internal conflicts and dominance struggles within the ruling BNP, which has created fear among the public.

According to the organisation, 56 incidents of political violence in March left a total of 404 people affected, including 14 deaths and 390 injuries. Among the deceased, 10 were from BNP, two from Jamaat, one was a woman, and the political affiliation of one could not be confirmed. In February, 18 incidents of violence left two dead and 113 injured.

11 custodial deaths
MSF reported that 11 prisoners died in various jails across the country in March, while two more died in the custody of law enforcement agencies.

The foundation said such deaths could be controlled if proper investigations are conducted into the causes of custodial deaths and those responsible are brought to justice.

Violence against women, children rises
The report, signed by the foundation's founder president Sultana Kamal, said 289 incidents of violence against women and children were recorded in March, 36 more than the previous month. These included 48 rape cases, 15 gang rapes, and three cases of murder after rape. Four women and adolescent girls with disabilities were among the rape victims.

MSF said the rate of rape and gang rape against women and children is extremely alarming. Incidents of attempted rape, sexual assault, suicide, murder, and recovery of live or dead newborns also increased during this period.

Interference with freedom of expression
While the number of attacks on journalists decreased slightly in March, MSF said the involvement of ruling party members in obstructing news gathering poses a threat to the media.

The foundation said 30 journalists in various districts were attacked, harassed, threatened or abused while performing professional duties in 10 incidents in March. Among these incidents, five involved BNP, one involved an expelled BNP activist, one involved an agitated mob, one involved doctors, one involved BIWTC employees, and one was linked to a fake Facebook account.

Unidentified bodies
Fifty-three unidentified bodies were recovered in March, including two children, two adolescents, 13 women and 36 men. MSF said these incidents raise questions about public safety and the role of law enforcement agencies.

Attacks on minorities
In March, four incidents of attacks on religious minorities and four incidents of attacks on indigenous communities were recorded, totalling eight. Additionally, 10 theft incidents occurred at temples of Hindu communities.

The report also noted continued misuse of the Cyber Security Ordinance 2025, post-anti-discrimination student movement arrests, post-election violence, border killings, lynching and mob violence.

MSF said the government's lack of effective role in public safety is increasing fear and insecurity among citizens. The organisation urged authorities to ensure political conduct, freedom of expression, dignity and public safety to prevent human rights violations.

Citing Road Safety Foundation, MSF said 274 people died in 342 road accidents across the country in the 10-day period from March 17 to March 26.