Earlier data also points to a steady rise. From January 1 to 10, ASK documented eight incidents that led to five deaths and 26 injuries, while between January 11 and 20, 18 incidents resulted in two deaths and 176 people being injured.

“In December 2025, a total of 18 incidents of political violence were recorded, resulting in 268 injuries and 4 deaths. In contrast, January 2026 saw a sharp increase, with 75 incidents of political violence, leaving 616 people injured and 11 people killed,” the ASK report read.

Statistics on the violence before Bangladesh (Source: Ain o Salish Kendra)

Journalists targeted

ASK flagged the growing targeting of journalists reporting on election-related developments as a serious concern. Its review found that 11 journalists were attacked in December 2025, 16 in January 2026, and at least 47 in the first 10 days of February 2026.

The rights group highlighted a February 7 incident in which 21 journalists from the online outlet Bangladesh Times were taken from their offices to a military camp and detained for nearly two hours, describing it as a significant blow to press freedom.

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Warning that political activity is becoming increasingly aggressive as polling day nears, ASK said the rising levels of violence and intimidation of media workers could undermine the prospects of a credible election.

The organisation called on all stakeholders to respect the rule of law and protect citizens’ constitutional rights to life and personal liberty. It also urged the creation of conditions that would allow voters to cast their ballots freely and without fear in the forthcoming polls.