Dhaka’s streets still echo the upheaval of August 2024, when a dramatic political transition toppled the long-standing regime. But now, a darker shadow looms over the new order: accusations of rampant law misuse to target innocents. Opposition leaders, journalists, and rights groups claim thousands have been ensnared in fabricated cases, settling old scores and stifling dissent.
Local reports highlight a staggering spike in registered cases nationwide since the shift. From August 5, 2024, through the 13th national elections, nearly 22,000 complaints flooded police stations. Among them, 7,500 involved political violence and vandalism, 1,500 linked to murders or attempts, and 1,200 under the Special Powers Act of 1974 and Digital Security Act.
Over 2,000 cases invoked vandalism and explosives laws, while around 10,000 alleged theft, land grabs, and assaults. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has acknowledged the issue, stating self-interested elements trapped ordinary citizens in many post-shift cases. He’s ordered police to review them and submit reports.
The Dhaka Tribune, citing Home Ministry and police sources, paints a picture of chaos-fueled filings. Human Rights Support Society (HRSS) data is even more alarming: from July 2024 protests to January 31 this year, 349 cases named 29,772 individuals, with over 65,000 listed as unknown suspects. Shockingly, 222 journalists faced accusations in 49 cases, while 834 endured assaults, torture, or harassment.
HRSS warns of deteriorating law and order, with human rights violations surging post-protests. Under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, police data shows 30-40% of cases have chargesheets filed, over 20% under investigation, and many final reports leading to acquittals. Yet, the era was marked by attacks on minorities, journalists, and political foes, deepening public distrust.
As Bangladesh navigates this fragile democracy, the misuse of law risks eroding the very reforms the upheaval promised. Calls grow for transparent probes to restore faith in justice.