Human Rights Situation in Bangladesh Remains Alarming in June 2025

Strategic Insights -

The human rights situation in Bangladesh continued to deteriorate in June 2025, with incidents of extrajudicial killings, custodial deaths, political violence, restrictions on freedom of expression, and violence against women and children reported across the country. Rights group Manabadhikar Sanskriti Foundation (MSF) expressed deep concern over the continued deterioration of human rights and called on the authorities to ensure political freedom, peaceful assembly, freedom of expression, and equal rights for all citizens.

Key Takeaways:

  • 41 incidents of mob attacks were recorded in June, leaving 10 people dead and 47 injured, with most victims accused of theft, robbery, rape, or having political affiliations.
  • Five deaths were reported in prison custody, including one by suicide and another allegedly due to torture, in different prisons, including Dhaka, Brahmanbaria, Chattogram, and Chuadanga.
  • 45 incidents of political violence were documented in June, affecting 438 people, with 8 killed and 430 injured, mostly due to intra-party conflicts within the BNP.
  • Seven incidents of violence against religious minorities were reported, including four cases of temple vandalism, desecration of idols, looting, and arson.
  • 363 incidents of violence against women and children were reported in June, including 63 rapes, 17 gang rapes, and 4 cases where victims were raped and murdered.
  • Two Bangladeshi nationals were reportedly killed by BSF firing in June, despite assurances made during the 55th Director General-level meeting between BGB and India's BSF to reduce border killings to zero.

Statistics:

  • 41 mob attacks resulted in 10 deaths and 47 injuries in June.
  • 45 incidents of political violence affected 438 people, with 8 killed and 430 injured.
  • The number of journalists assaulted, harassed, or threatened reduced to 32 incidents in June, compared to 101 in May.
  • 363 incidents of violence against women and children were reported in June.
  • 64 individuals were victims of rape, including 63 women and 1 man, in June.
  • 4 Bangladeshi nationals were reportedly killed by BSF firing in June.

Sources:

  • Manabadhikar Sanskriti Foundation (MSF) report on human rights situation in June 2025.
  • MSF Twitter feed.
  • Bangladesh Awami League's online portal.
  • The Daily Star news portal.
  • The Independent news portal.
  • Bangladesh Press Council's report on violence against journalists.
  • United Nations Human Rights Council report on human rights in Bangladesh.