As campaigning intensifies for the upcoming Bangladesh elections, there is a growing worry over safety and security, with reports of violence targeting candidates and law enforcement personnel. Incidents such as shootings, stabbings, vandalism, and clashes in various constituencies have led to injuries and fatalities since the start of the election campaign. Election-related infrastructure like camps, offices, and even CCTV cameras at polling stations have been vandalized or looted in some areas.
Amid escalating tensions, candidates have sought police protection due to death threats and fears of conspiracy against them. Political violence during the campaign has resulted in clashes between activists, leaving 24 people injured across five districts. Notably, an incident where eggs were thrown at NCP leader Nasiruddin Patwari during an event in Dhaka has sparked accusations against rival BNP leaders Mirza Abbas and Tarique Rahman, which the BNP denies.
Recently, concerns over threats led to a General Diary being filed for the protection of the family of a slain Islamist leader. Tragically, a BNP general secretary succumbed to injuries sustained in a shooting in Dhaka. NCP leaders have decried intolerant behavior by a political group, emphasizing the need for fair elections without violence. The escalating political violence in Bangladesh ahead of the February 12 election has raised significant concerns.
