The human rights organization Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has expressed deep concern over ongoing violence, inflammatory remarks, and allegations of irregularities surrounding the upcoming national parliamentary election in Bangladesh. In a statement issued on Thursday, ASK said these incidents are undermining the electoral environment and creating fear and insecurity among citizens, which contradicts the principles of a free, fair, and neutral election.

According to ASK’s statement, media reports indicate that political activists from different parties have been victims of violence in several parts of the country. A local Jamaat leader was killed and a BNP leader seriously injured in a clash in Jhenaigati upazila of Sherpur, while around 30 supporters from both sides were hurt. The organization also noted allegations of forced removal of women’s veils during campaigning, attempts to influence voters with money, intimidation, and the use of indecent language.

ASK emphasized that ensuring a violence-free environment for voters is a constitutional duty of the state and urged all political parties, candidates, and law enforcement agencies to take impartial and effective measures to prevent further unrest.