Bangladesh Faces Rising Custodial Deaths Under Interim Government
Dhaka, Bangladesh – February 2, 2025: Bangladesh is witnessing a growing human rights crisis, with 17 custodial deaths reported in the first five months of the interim government led by Dr. Yunus. Human rights groups have expressed deep concerns, alleging that many of these deaths are due to extrajudicial killings and torture.
A report by Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK), a human rights organization, highlights an alarming trend of state violence. According to the report, three custodial deaths have occurred each month since the interim government took power. In 2024 alone, 21 such deaths have been recorded across different regions, including Gopalganj, Narayanganj, Gaibandha, Mymensingh, Savar, Chattogram, Kishoreganj, Jessore, Cox’s Bazar, Noakhali, Shariatpur, and Comilla.
One of the most disturbing cases is that of Touhidul Islam, a youth leader from Comilla. He was arrested by the Joint Forces on January 31 and died the next day at Cumilla Medical College Hospital. Authorities claim he was under legal investigation, but his family strongly disputes this. His brother, Abul Kalam, insists that Islam was already dead upon arrival at the hospital, showing clear signs of abuse and torture.
Despite the serious allegations, no independent investigation has been launched. Instead, the military is handling the inquiry, raising questions about transparency and fairness. Human rights activists argue that past military-led investigations have failed to hold security forces accountable for similar abuses.
Government Response and Public Outrage
The Office of the Chief Adviser has condemned custodial torture and deaths but has yet to take effective action. The government has promised a high-level military investigation into Islam’s case, but many remain skeptical. Experts warn that relying on the military for law enforcement weakens civilian oversight and contributes to further abuses. Reports suggest that military personnel involved in policing have been accused of misconduct, including extortion, land grabbing, and corruption.
In response, opposition leaders and human rights organizations are demanding an independent, civilian-led investigation. They argue that the military lacks the transparency needed to investigate its own actions and that only a civilian-led process can ensure justice.
A Deepening Crisis with No Accountability
The rising number of custodial deaths highlights a serious failure in Bangladesh’s justice system. The government’s inability—or unwillingness—to stop these extrajudicial killings is eroding fundamental rights and public trust in the legal system.
Human rights activists warn that without immediate reforms, Bangladesh risks further instability. Many citizens fear law enforcement agencies, and the families of victims continue to demand justice and accountability. The government must take urgent steps to stop these deaths, restore transparency, and uphold human rights. If no action is taken, custodial deaths will continue to tarnish Bangladesh’s reputation and deepen the country’s human rights crisis.
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