12 killed, 2,653 injured in over 700 incidents of poll-related violence: HRSS
A large portion of the violence during this period stemmed from conflicts among nomination seekers of different political parties, deprived candidates, party activists and supporters, particularly from intra-party clashes.
More than 2,653 people were injured and 12 were killed in over 700 incidents of election-related violence, according to a report published by Human Rights Support Society (HRSS).
The findings were unveiled today (9 March) at a views-exchange meeting held at Bishwo Shahitto Kendro in Banglamotor, Dhaka.
According to the report, the overall picture of violence surrounding the 13th parliamentary election was concerning.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
Between October 2025 and February 2026, at least 2,653 people were injured and 12 killed in more than 700 election-related violent incidents.
During this period, at least 45 people were shot, while more than 600 houses, vehicles, business establishments, election offices and polling centres were vandalised, looted or set on fire.
The report said that after the election schedule was announced, violence intensified.
Between 11 December 2025 and 11 February 2026, at least 1,650 people were injured and five killed in 254 incidents of violence.
A large portion of the violence during this period stemmed from conflicts among nomination seekers of different political parties, deprived candidates, party activists and supporters, particularly from intra-party clashes.
In clashes related to internal conflicts within the BNP alone, at least 595 people were injured and three killed in 68 incidents.
In addition, 915 people were injured and one person killed in 100 clashes between BNP and Jamaat supporters.
Regarding irregularities and disorder on election day, the human rights organisation said that although the overall environment was relatively peaceful, several violent incidents were recorded across the country.
At least 393 incidents of irregularities, disorder or clashes were documented nationwide.
These included 149 incidents of disorder at polling centres, 105 clashes between supporters of rival candidates, 59 cases of ballot stuffing, 19 incidents of polling agents being forced out, 18 cases of obstruction to entering polling centres, 13 cases of negligence by responsible officials, six attacks on candidates, three incidents of ballot box snatching, and two cases of arson.
Additionally, 50 people were arrested, 13 presiding or polling officers were withdrawn, penalties or fines were imposed in 55 incidents, five journalists were injured, and voting was cancelled at three polling centres.
The report also highlighted post-election violence and retaliatory politics, describing it as one of the most alarming aspects surrounding the election.
According to available information, more than 450 people were injured in over 260 separate clashes across at least 30 districts after the announcement of the election results.
During this period, more than 400 offices, businesses and residential houses were vandalised, looted or set on fire.
In five separate incidents, four youths and one child were killed.
The HRSS report also highlighted election-related violence and degrading treatment against women.
From the announcement of the election schedule until 11 February, at least 40 women were harassed and 23 injured in 32 incidents.
In addition, at least 25 women were injured in 10 post-election attacks, and one allegation of rape was reported.
The incidents included forcing female activists to remove their hijabs, obstructing their campaigns, physical assaults, humiliation, and targeting them for their political participation.
