The DMP reports that at least 112 cases were lodged with minimum 32 police stations under the jurisdiction of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police in the aftermath of the violence that followed the BNP rally on October 28. There have been 1,636 arrests in these instances, including BNP leaders, activists, and the party’s highest-ranking officials
Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its Jamaat alliance partner have been leading a campaign of violence, destruction, and disruption in recent weeks, plunging Bangladesh into a state of instability and turmoil. The massive loss of life and property that followed what started out as a big gathering swiftly turned into a series of violent blockades and destructive burning. In order to protect public safety and the integrity of the democratic process, the government is planning to enforce a more stringent clampdown on the BNP as the situation worsens.
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BNP’s reign of terror
Since the BNP started their violent spree, there have been many deaths and violent events, such as the arson of buses and ambulances, attacks on journalists, and attacks on law enforcement, which have killed one police officer and a journalist. The transition from peaceful to violent demonstrations has caused widespread apprehension and distress among people. Recent occurrences have revealed a significant increase in the frequency of arson assaults and violent acts, presenting an unfavorable portrayal of the previous incidents that the party had previously highlighted.
Recent Fire Service and Civil Defense reports show the horrific human cost of the violence. Data shows that 12 political activists, 1 police officer, and 1 journalist have died, and 30 journalists and 55 police officers have been hurt during the unrest of 28th October. Fire Service and Civil Defense reports a total of 21 arson incidents spanning from 4:00 am on Sunday (November 05, 2023) to 6:00 pm on Monday (November 06, 2023) across various regions of Bangladesh. According Bangladesh Fire Service and Civil Defense media cell station officer Talha Bin Jasim, 12 of these terrifying arson attacks occurred in Dhaka City Corporation. Furthermore, the fire official revealed that 13 incidents happened within the Chattogram division, while 16 occurred within the Dhaka division. 16 buses, two trucks, one private car, one CNG-run autorickshaw, and one person hauler were all destroyed by blazes during this chaotic period.
Furthermore, the BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, and coalition of opposition parties have declared a 48-hour blockade. However, prior to its initiation, around 11 pm last night, a vehicle was set ablaze in the Malibagh area of Dhaka, adjacent to the Ansar Camp.
Government’s determination in addressing the menace for public safety and security
The government’s commitment to combat BNP disruptions is clear. With a stronger clampdown, the government hopes to restore peace, defend citizens’ rights, and uphold democracy, which underpins a functioning society. The persistent acts of vandalism and arson, coupled with the BNP’s use of disruptive tactics and violent means, have led the government to take decisive action, underscoring the critical need to preserve law and order.
Sources from the police department state that arrest warrants are being prepared for BNP activists and leaders at the grassroots level.
“We held a special meeting with all the metropolitan commissioners, and the range DIGs and instructed them to arrest the accused in FIRs and those with outstanding warrants.“
“We have already taken steps to make a list of troublemakers, and lawful actions will be taken … .”
Md Anwar Hossain, Deputy Inspector General of police Operation at Police Headquarters
The DMP reports that at least 112 cases were lodged with minimum 32 police stations under the jurisdiction of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police in the aftermath of the violence that followed the BNP rally on October 28. There have been 1,636 arrest cases in these instances, including BNP leaders, activists, and the party’s highest-ranking officials as of Monday.
In order to preserve order and guarantee the integrity of the electoral process, the Awami League has implemented a stringent strategy to counter the disruptive activities of the BNP and maintain its “peace and development” demonstrations until the national polls. To prevent additional unrest and restore normalcy, the government is monitoring and arresting BNP activists and leaders implicated in criminal activity.
What law says about the punishment for arson and vandalization in Bangladesh?
Arson and vandalism are crimes that have explicit legal definitions, which explains the recent arrests of leaders and activists of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). The 1860 Penal Code specifies the repercussions of such conduct. According to Section 435 of the Penal Code, those who intentionally damage property by means of fire or explosive substances and cause an equivalent amount of damage (one hundred taka or more) may receive a maximum prison term of seven years in addition to monetary penalties. Furthermore, in violation of Section 434, individuals convicted of damaging or relocating a publicly established landmark with the intent to reduce its functionality may face a maximum one-year prison sentence, a monetary penalty, or both. By elucidating the legal foundation for apprehending individuals engaged in such activities, these provisions underscore the criticality of preserving public order and security through adherence to the rule of law.
Impact on democratic process and election preparation
Amidst the forthcoming national parliament election, the government maintains an unwavering dedication to safeguarding the integrity of the democratic process. Enforcing more stringent penalties in response to the disruptive activities of the BNP is critical for protecting the integrity of the electoral process and guaranteeing that citizens may exercise their right to vote without apprehension of coercion or physical harm.
“Election will be held in due time and no one would be allowed to foil it. If anyone tries to resist the election, we will do whatever is required.”
Bahauddin Nasim, Joint General Secretary, Awami League
In light of possible attacks on government facilities and infrastructure, law enforcement has implemented additional security measures, such as installing cameras in public transportation and closely monitoring any unusual activity. Additional security personnel have been deployed, specifically in the vicinity of critical installations and administrative facilities.
Lastly, the government endeavors to establish a secure setting conducive to a thorough and open electoral process by steadfastly opposing the disruptive activities of the BNP. Despite rising opposition tensions and disruptions, the government is committed to election stability and order. The party’s steadfast commitment to election preparations is indicative of its consistent resolve to safeguard democratic ideals and guarantee a just and transparent electoral procedure.
