Let there be mass resistance against mass beatings

Two individuals were beaten to death on the same day at Dhaka University and Jahangirnagar University. A group of students attacked a young man suspected of theft in Fazlul Haque Muslim Hall at Dhaka University. Meanwhile, at Jahangirnagar University, a former Chhatra League leader was also killed by mob violence. In Khagrachari, a youth named Mohammad Mamun was beaten to death on allegations of motorcycle theft. This incident sparked clashes and violence between Adivasis and Bengali settlers in Dighinala.

Earlier, on September 7, Abdullah Al Masud, a former leader of the Rajshahi University Chhatra League, was also killed. Following the fall of the Awami League government on August 5 amid the student uprising, incidents of "mob justice" have become increasingly prevalent in various locations. Despite government appeals to refrain from taking the law into their own hands, these warnings have largely gone unheeded, leading to a disturbing continuation of such violence.

Mass lynching, which constitutes a blatant disregard for the law, is indeed a criminal offense and can be classified as extrajudicial killing. Such incidents are causing significant unrest among the general public. Those who consider themselves powerful often exploit their influence, engaging in acts of violence without faith in the existing legal and judicial systems. Killing individuals without handing them over to law enforcement is a gross violation of human rights, which is entirely unacceptable. Every person has the right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Moreover, the right to legal protection is clearly enshrined in the constitution.

While it’s natural to feel anger toward those identified as criminals—who may cause harm to society—it is essential to temper that anger with reason. Losing sight of justice in the face of emotion can lead to dangerous consequences. The exact number of individuals killed by police orders under the Sheikh Hasina government from mid-July to August 5 remains unverified. Regardless of the count, those who lost their lives at the hands of the police during that period must be held accountable for murder. Every case of unlawful killing should be thoroughly investigated, with a focus on identifying the perpetrators and the circumstances surrounding each death. This is the primary responsibility of the interim government.

Furthermore, those who have been brutally killed or subjected to violent acts since August 5, including those hanged after killing or beaten to death, should also face justice. It’s crucial to remember that murder is murder, regardless of whether it occurs at the hands of a police force operating under a repressive regime or by protesting students. Accountability must be upheld to prevent future abuses of power.

If we discuss equality, justice, and fairness, then all forms of injustice—be it murder or other acts of violence—must be addressed. We must ensure that the chaos perpetuated by students does not replace the oppressive rule of the Awami League. Otherwise, the cycle of violence will persist. There is no meaningful distinction between lynching and shooting; both result in the loss of life, and every life impacts families and embodies individual dreams. Every act of murder should be investigated, and those responsible must be identified and brought to justice.

Currently, certain individuals and groups appear to be fostering violence to reclaim their diminishing political influence. There is a troubling atmosphere where leaders and supporters of opposing parties are not only targeted but subjected to severe retaliation. This climate of revenge has been prevalent for the past month and a half, marked by widespread insensitivity. Phrases like "not allowed to speak for 15 years" and "there is no forgiveness for the mass murderers of July-August" reflect a growing atmosphere of extreme authoritarianism.

While no one seems to oppose holding accountable those responsible for the massacres of July and August, it is crucial to differentiate between seeking justice and enacting revenge. Many would welcome legal action against any criminal, believing that accountability is essential for a just society. However, resorting to extrajudicial killings as a means of revenge for past injustices is not justified.

If we reject the idea that politics is the ultimate force shaping our lives, then we must recognize the importance of building connections between individuals. We have no right to resort to violence against those who hold different views. Yet, many today seem to be engaged in a fierce battle, consumed by anger, unwilling to hear any perspective other than that of conflict and retaliation. Those who advocate for a different approach are often labeled as supporters of fascism.

It's essential to understand that not everyone shares the same perceptions. Should we silence those with differing opinions? Regardless of whether someone’s viewpoint is right or wrong, what gives us the authority to stifle their expression? How can we justify undermining freedom of speech? Those who seek to discuss more positive alternatives to conflict are often dismissed as “League” supporters.

Such public frenzy ultimately serves the interests of self-serving politics but offers no real benefit to society as a whole. We need to foster a dialogue that embraces diverse perspectives and encourages constructive conversations rather than descending into chaos and violence. Only then can we hope to build a more inclusive and harmonious society.

If the current frenzy continues, it risks becoming self-destructive. Taking the law into one's own hands and antagonizing others is not a viable option. The country is facing numerous crises that require immense patience and responsible action from all of us. This nation belongs to everyone, and we must work together to build a better future. At this critical time, violence, mob justice, and public beatings are entirely counterproductive; they threaten to obliterate the vast potential that lies ahead.

In the name of freedom, society is becoming increasingly tainted by incitement to violence and madness. While some may lose their sensitivity, those who still hold onto compassion and reason must not have their voices stifled. These voices represent our last hope for a better society.

It is crucial to remember that depriving a person of their right to life can never be justified. Murder is murder, whether it involves one victim or ten. We cannot continue to dismiss lynching as merely “sad” or “unwanted.” Those who participate in or facilitate such acts of violence must face severe consequences.

Mass beating is spreading like an contagious disease, fueled by a deep frustration with the long-standing legal system. In a civilized society, no individual or organized group has the right to take the law into their own hands. We cannot remain passive in the face of reports about deaths resulting from mob violence. We must foster mass resistance against such brutality and raise awareness about the dangers of rumors. Exemplary punishment should be meted out to those involved in mass beatings. Mob lynching has no place in a civilized society, and such barbarity must be unequivocally condemned. It is essential for people from all walks of life to unite against mob violence. If you witness someone being attacked, it is crucial to intervene and protect that person. By forming a collective barrier around the victim, we can create an impenetrable shield of support. Only through such solidarity can we save vulnerable lives and uphold our commitment to making the world a safer place for future generations.

Chiroranjan Sarker: Columnist