ASK calls for state, political intervention to curb post-poll violence

Human rights organisation Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has called on political parties and the state to take immediate steps to stop violence reported across the country following the national polls.

In a press statement issued today (15 February), ASK expressed deep concern over incidents of violence, deaths and attacks on political opponents in different districts.

Citing media reports, the organisation said one person was killed in Munshiganj district and another in Bagerhat district.

It also noted that more than 200 people were injured in attacks in several districts, including Sylhet, Cumilla, Narsingdi, Feni, Gazipur, Natore, Jhalakathi, Narail, Pabna, Bogura, Faridpur, Barguna, Jhenaidah, Chandpur, Patuakhali, Kishoreganj and Dinajpur.

ASK further referred to an allegation of rape during the recent violence, describing it as "not only a criminal offence but an extreme example of the violation of human dignity and fundamental rights".

The organisation said the state has a constitutional responsibility to protect the life, security and dignity of every citizen, particularly women, minorities and socially vulnerable groups.

"In this context, ASK strongly calls upon all political parties to immediately provide strict and clear instructions at the grassroots level so that no incidents of retaliatory violence, attacks, occupation, intimidation, or violence against women occur," the statement said, adding that political differences can never justify violence or human rights violations.

It also demanded that law enforcement agencies and the relevant administration bring all incidents under judicial process through "swift, impartial and credible investigations".

In cases of sexual violence, the state must ensure the victim's safety, medical treatment, psychological support and legal assistance, it said.

ASK added that ensuring a peaceful and safe post-election environment is essential for a democratic state system.