Persistent Power of Mobs: What Keeps Them Going?

Mob Violence Resurges in Bangladesh, Stuns Society

Mob violence has made a concerning comeback in Bangladesh, reminiscent of authoritarian regimes and shocking many in the country. This alarming trend was highlighted by various individuals, including Kamal Ahmed, Senior Journalist and Chief of the Media Reform Commission, who expressed his dismay at the reoccurrence of past methods in the DRU incident.

Ahmed made his remarks in a Facebook post on 29 August, stating that the methods used in the assault on a Mancha 71 discussion at Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) were shocking, as it was assumed that such practices had ended with the fall of the autocratic regime.

Anu Muhammad, a member of Ganatantrik Odhikar Committee and a noted economist, echoed Ahmed's sentiments during a condolence meeting held at the Central Shaheed Minar. Muhammad accused the government of patronizing the mob, allowing violence to fester in society.

Nur Khan Liton, a lawyer and human rights activist, also expressed concern, stating that the government must take decisive steps to end mob terrorism. Altaf Parvez, a researcher on South & Southeast Asian History and Politics, further argued that the government has been selective in containing violence.

The DRU incident, where participants including freedom fighters, university teachers, and journalists were arrested and cases were filed against them, despite the legal action that should have been taken against the perpetrators of mob violence, has raised serious questions about the government's commitment to upholding the rule of law.

Altaf Parvez emphasized that it is the sole responsibility of the government to enforce law and order and control the mob. He also pointed out that in some cases, intellectuals patronized by the government have defended vandalism by terming the 'mob' as a 'pressure group'. This, he argued, has led to a ripple effect in society, with violence in one place inspiring similar crimes elsewhere.

Mob terror has reached a level where people live in constant fear, with mobs attacking professionals, politicians, businessmen, and ordinary citizens. Groups are uniting to attack individuals for ill motives such as extortion, looting, and setting properties ablaze. The extreme misuse of the Anti-Terrorism Act and Digital Security Act, which were common practices during the previous autocratic regime, has also resurfaced.

Critics argue that inaction, selective law enforcement, and political convenience have allowed mob terror to fester. As the nation grapples with this issue, it is crucial for the government to take decisive action to restore peace and uphold the rule of law in Bangladesh.