With the upcoming national election in Bangladesh on February 12, political violence has escalated significantly, according to a Dhaka-based human rights organization. In January alone, there were 75 incidents resulting in 616 injuries and 11 deaths, a stark increase from the 18 incidents in December 2025 that caused 268 injuries and four fatalities.
Following the announcement of the election schedule and the commencement of campaigning on January 22, clashes have intensified across the country. Between January 21 and 31, 49 clashes led to four deaths and 414 injuries, indicating a rising trend as the election day approaches.
Journalists have also been targeted amidst the escalating political violence, with 11 journalists facing obstruction or assault in December and 16 in January. The rights group has expressed concerns and called for political parties to show restraint and maintain peace during the campaign period.
As campaigning for the Bangladesh elections began, reports of escalating violence, including threats and attacks on candidates and law enforcement personnel, have raised apprehensions about the safety and security of the electoral process. Incidents of shootings, stabbings, vandalism, and clashes in various constituencies have resulted in numerous injuries and fatalities, along with damage to election-related infrastructure.
