People endured immense suffering during Sheikh Hasina’s regime, ranging from extrajudicial killings to the systematic oppression of free speech. Bangladesh went through one of its darkest periods under the Awami League’s rule. On August 5, 2024, when Sheikh Hasina fled the country, people believed it was the beginning of a new era. They dreamed of reforming the nation, of a Bangladesh free from dictatorship and political terror. But that dream has been crushed.
Since coming to power, the interim government has failed at every step. They act as if they are trying their best, but the reality is different. Every day, horrific incidents occur across the country, yet the government remains silent. Ask any Bangladeshi now, and they will tell you they feel lost—unsure of what’s happening. The police, who were once notorious for carrying out Awami League’s orders, are still in service. Many officers who brutally killed innocent students and civilians during the student uprising remain unpunished. The interim government has done nothing to arrest the top Awami League leaders. These criminals are now outside of Bangladesh, freely giving interviews and justifying their fascism. Protests erupt daily in the heart of the country. Some sources even claim they are funding individuals who are leading protests in Bangladesh. Yet, the interim government neither investigates them nor takes any steps to stop them.
Bangladeshis had envisioned “Bangladesh 2.0″—a country reborn, free from oppression. Instead, they have witnessed a disturbing surge in extremism and mob justice, fueled by the government’s inaction. This alarming trend is not just an issue of law enforcement failure; it poses a direct threat to the country’s social fabric, justice system, and human rights.
Murder of Transgender Woman in Rangamati
On February 3, 2025, a transgender woman named Shila was brutally murdered in Betbunia, Kaukhali Upazila, Rangamati. Her throat was slit, and her body was left in her home. This horrific act is yet another example of the increasing vulnerability of transgender individuals in Bangladesh, as well as the growing culture of impunity for violent crimes.
Despite the severity of the crime, law enforcement has done little. No suspects have been apprehended, and no significant steps have been taken to prevent such attacks on marginalized communities. The silence of the interim government on such brutality speaks volumes.
Three Bodies Recovered in Comilla
On the same day, police recovered three bodies from two upazilas in Comilla:
- Tipu Sultan (28) – Found hanging in Mohanpur, Sadar Dakshin Upazila.
- Md. Rifat Hossain (9) – Discovered with his throat slit on a hill in the Chandimura area.
- Shahida Begum (65) – Found inside a septic tank next to a tube well behind a house in Chauddagram.
Authorities stated that Rifat and Shahida Begum were killed in a premeditated manner, while investigations into Tipu Sultan’s death remain inconclusive. The recovery of three bodies in a single day is not just a statistic—it is evidence of the lawlessness that has gripped the country. Yet, the government continues to turn a blind eye.
Mob Justice and Political Turmoil
The aftermath of the August 5, 2024, political upheaval has given rise to uncontrolled mob violence. Political factions, instead of working toward stability, are fueling division, leading to attacks on individuals and institutions.
One of the most disturbing trends is the rise in lynchings and vigilante violence. People accused of crimes—sometimes based on mere rumours—are being beaten or even killed in broad daylight. Law enforcement agencies, instead of intervening, often stand idly by, allowing mob justice to run rampant. This complete breakdown of the justice system is proof of the interim government’s incompetence.
Freedom of press still under attack
Since August 2024, journalism in Bangladesh has suffered an unprecedented decline. Mob justice and political interference have made it nearly impossible for journalists to report freely.
Some of the country’s leading print media offices have faced threats of assault and siege, according to a press release (Nov 2024) issued by the council’s President Mahfuz Anam and General Secretary Dewan Hanif Mahmud. Newspapers like Prothom Alo and The Daily Star have requested protection from law enforcement, the release said, noting that security agencies have promptly responded to the call.
In September 2024, The interim government revoked the press accreditations of 167 journalists, citing “national security concerns” without providing any evidence.
In January 2025, International press freedom organizations confirmed that Bangladesh ranked among the most dangerous countries for journalists. Five reporters were killed in politically motivated attacks.
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has repeatedly urged the government to ensure media safety, but their calls have fallen on deaf ears. Press freedom in Bangladesh will not improve until a democratically elected government takes over and restores accountability.
Women’s Rights
Since August 2024, incidents across the country have demonstrated that women’s participation in public life is being systematically restricted.
Women athletes have faced increased restrictions in several cities, with local authorities discouraging female participation in public sports events. On 28th January A mob of students and extremists stormed a football field in Joypurhat, tore down fences, and forced a women’s match to be cancelled. They claimed that women playing football is “anti-Islamic.” The attack was brazen and live-streamed on Facebook, with the perpetrators openly threatening further violence.
The lack of government intervention against these restrictions reflects the growing intolerance that threatens women’s rights in Bangladesh. Instead of standing up for equality, the interim government remains silent.
Since August 5, 2024, the government’s failure to address rising extremism and mob justice has been undeniable. Violent crimes go unpunished. Journalists are silenced. Women are pushed out of public life. The police force remains dysfunctional, and political criminals continue to operate freely. This is not what the people of Bangladesh fought for.
The lack of accountability and law enforcement has emboldened criminals and deepened the crisis. It has become clear that this interim government is either unwilling or incapable of bringing about real change.
The recent events in Bangladesh highlight the urgent need for an elected government that prioritizes justice and human rights. The current administration’s negligence has allowed extremism and mob justice to thrive, threatening the safety and freedoms of its citizens. If this downward spiral continues, Bangladesh will only descend further into lawlessness.
The people of Bangladesh fought for a better future, but their dreams are being shattered. Immediate reforms and a return to democratic governance are the only way forward. Until then, the country remains in crisis.
-Abdul Wahid Talim
