The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council highlighted that in 2025, the country experienced 522 communal violence incidents, a stark contrast to the government’s reported 71 incidents with communal elements. These findings, based on media reports, revealed 66 fatalities, 28 cases of violence against women, 95 attacks on places of worship, and 102 assaults on homes and businesses. Additionally, the report documented cases of abduction, extortion, death threats, physical assaults, blasphemy allegations, and forcible occupation of properties.
The Unity Council raised concerns as Bangladesh approaches the February 12 election, citing 42 incidents of communal violence between January 1 and January 27. These included murders, assaults, attacks on religious sites, and instances of looting and arson. Despite minority communities’ desire to participate in the electoral process, persistent fears regarding safety and security remain unresolved.
Expressing worries over minority rights, the Council emphasized the need for authorities to address the apprehensions of minority voters. It criticized the government’s stance on communal violence, particularly the categorization of incidents, and condemned the harassment and legal actions against minority leaders, highlighting a deteriorating law and order situation in Bangladesh.
