16 killed in 83 incidents of ‘political violence’ in September: HRSS

At least 16 people were killed, and a minimum of 706 were injured in a total of 83 incidents of "political violence" in September this year, said a report of the Human Rights Support Society (HRSS).

Out of 83 incidents, 45 occurred due to internal conflicts within the BNP, 23 involved clashes between the BNP and the Awami League, 5 were within the Awami League, and 10 involved various political parties.

Among the 16 people killed, 1 was from the Awami League and 8 from the BNP due to internal conflicts, while the remaining 7 were killed in attacks by opposition groups.

Of the 16 deceased, 11 were BNP activists and 5 were supporters of the Awami League.

HRSS disclosed the report analysing the deaths and injuries in September in a media release on Friday, based on news reports from various media outlets and information collected by the organisation’s investigation wing.

Nine killed in clashes with law enforcers

According to the report, nine people were killed in clashes with law enforcement agencies or while in custody in September. Among the victims were two hill residents who died in a clash with the army in Khagrachhari, and a garment worker in Ashulia who was shot dead by the police.

90 journalists faced torture and harassment

In at least 18 incidents in September, 90 journalists were subjected to torture and harassment; at least 21 were injured, 2 were humiliated, 3 faced threats, and 2 were arrested. Additionally, 62 journalists were charged in 5 cases.

28 killed in mob lynching

In 36 incidents of mob lynching in September, 28 people were killed and 14 were injured. Among the victims were former Chhatra League leader of Rajshahi University Abdullah Al Masud, Jahangirnagar University Chhatra League leader Shamim Ahmed, and Tofazzal Hossain, a mentally ill youth beaten to death on suspicion of theft at Dhaka University.