ASK expresses concern over post-election violence

Human rights organisation Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has expressed deep concern over incidents of violence, deaths and attacks on political opponents in various parts of the country following the 13th National Parliamentary Election and referendum.

In a press release on Sunday, February 15, the organisation condemned these incidents and called upon political parties and the state to take swift and effective measures.

According to the statement, based on information published in media, one person was killed in violent incidents in Munshiganj. Similarly, news of one death due to violence in Bagerhat has also been received. Additionally, it was mentioned that over two hundred individuals have been injured in attacks in various districts including Sylhet, Cumilla, Narsingdi, Feni, Gazipur, Natore, Jhalakathi, Narail, Pabna, Bogura, Faridpur, Barguna, Jhenaidah, Chandpur, Patuakhali, Kishoreganj and Dinajpur.

ASK also reported that during the same period, allegations have emerged that a woman was raped. The organisation stated that this is not merely a criminal offence but an extreme example of violation of human dignity and fundamental rights.

ASK said that protecting the life, security and dignity of every citizen is the constitutional responsibility of the state. Ensuring the security of women, minorities and socially vulnerable populations in particular is part of the fundamental duty of the state and political leadership.

Calling upon all political parties, the statement urged them to immediately issue strict and clear directives at the grassroots level so that no form of retaliatory violence, attacks, occupation, intimidation or violence against women occurs. The organisation also commented that political differences can never justify violence or human rights violations.

Demanding action from law enforcement agencies and the concerned administration, ASK stated that each incident must be brought under judicial process through swift, impartial and credible investigation. Particularly in cases of sexual violence, the state must take immediate steps to ensure the victim's safety, medical care, psychological support and legal assistance.