The British All-Party Parliamentary has expressed deep concern over the Bangladesh Violence,Instability and deteriorating law-and-order situation

UK APPG Expresses Concern Over Violence and Instability in Post-Awami League Bangladesh

The British All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) has expressed deep concern over the political instability and deteriorating law-and-order situation in Bangladesh following the fall of the Awami League government. Despite initial hopes for a positive transition, the APPG’s recent report outlines alarming levels of violence and rights violations.

Based on testimonies from various organizations and individuals, the APPG report, cited by The Independent, details over 2,000 incidents of brutality, including mob killings, arson, and attacks on religious sites. Among the most notable incidents are the destruction of the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum and multiple assaults, including the lynching of individuals at Dhaka University. Over a 38-day period, at least 21 people were killed in mob violence, the report claims.

Citing data from the Human Rights Culture Foundation, the report noted that in September alone, five people were killed and 619 injured in politically motivated attacks, while extrajudicial killings and vigilante violence surged. Additionally, 5,818 firearms were reportedly looted during this period, of which 1,885 remain unaccounted for, along with three million rounds of ammunition.

The APPG also highlighted communal violence, stating that between August 4 and August 20, 2,010 incidents of communal attacks occurred, including murders, rapes, and vandalism of places of worship. Khulna division reported the highest number of incidents, including the rape of four women, one of whom was speech-impaired.

The report includes testimonies from Bangladesh's Hindu, Christian, Buddhist, and Indigenous communities, emphasizing the threats these groups face. It notes that growing Islamist extremism in Bangladesh poses significant risks for regional stability, prompting the APPG to call for international attention.

British Foreign Minister David Lammy, responding to the report, emphasized the importance of stability in Bangladesh due to its close ties with the UK. He highlighted the need for democratic governance and minority protection, warning of potential international repercussions if the situation worsens.

APPG Chair Andrew Rosindell stated that the report aims to raise awareness among UK policymakers and international stakeholders about the urgent challenges in Bangladesh. As a member of the Commonwealth and a key trading partner, Bangladesh’s stability and governance are of strategic importance to the UK.

The findings of the APPG’s investigation are expected to be discussed in the UK Parliament, with recommendations shared with governments, charities, and other partners to address the situation effectively.