Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has expressed deep concern over rising violence, clashes and provocative behaviour linked to the upcoming national parliamentary election.
The organisation said such incidents are creating fear among citizens and undermining the environment required for a free, fair and credible election, according to a ASK press statement.
According to media reports, political activists from various parties have been attacked in different parts of the country.
On Wednesday, a local Jamaat leader was killed in Jhenaigati upazila of Sherpur district, while a BNP leader was seriously injured in the same incident.
About 30 supporters from both sides were also injured in the clash. Similar reports of attacks on party activists have surfaced from several districts in recent days.
ASK also highlighted a worrying allegation that women’s burqas or niqabs were forcibly removed during campaigning, describing the act as unacceptable.
The organisation stressed that no citizen should be subjected to humiliation or coercion for participating in election activities.
It also condemned the use of religion in campaigning and any attempts to pressure citizens of other faiths, noting that such practices violate constitutional rights to equality, religious freedom and freedom of expression.
Media reports also mention attempts to influence voters through monetary incentives, intimidation during campaigns, use of abusive language and defamatory remarks against rival candidates.
ASK urged political parties, candidates, election officials and law enforcement agencies to ensure a violence-free election environment.
The organisation said the state has a constitutional duty to guarantee that every citizen can vote without fear or intimidation.
ASK warned that any form of election-related violence, incitement, voter influence through money, misuse of religion or uncivil conduct is unacceptable.
It called for immediate, neutral and effective action to prevent such incidents and urged all stakeholders to conduct election activities with mutual respect, restraint and respect for human rights.
