STAFF CORRESPONDENT

At least 75 journalists faced harassment and abuse in 40 incidents across the country in April, according to the monthly report of Human Rights Support Society (HRSS).

According to the report released yesterday, 22 people died and 39 were injured in 44 incidents of mob violence, alongside six deaths and 533 injuries in 98 incidents linked to political violence.

The findings were compiled from 16 national media outlets and HRSS’s own data.

Of the journalists targeted, 42 were injured, 17 assaulted, and 10 threatened. Additionally, three were detained, and five were accused in four separate cases.

Mob violence incidents remained frequent, often triggered by allegations of theft, robbery, snatching, and blasphemy.

While political violence saw a slight decrease from March -- during which 18 deaths and 912 injuries were recorded in 113 incidents -- the HRSS described the situation as still alarming.

Internal BNP conflicts accounted for the highest 40 clashes, leaving four dead and 247 injured. Clashes between BNP and Jamaat resulted in 113 injuries, while BNP-Awami League confrontations left 58 injured. Other violence stemmed from inter-party conflicts, extortion, and struggles for dominance.

In 13 separate attacks on political activists, six people were killed and 32 injured, while 37 sustained bullet wounds. The report also noted widespread vandalism, arson, and looting.

Law enforcers reportedly obstructed seven public meetings and rallies, leading to 49 injuries and two detentions. Interference with freedom of expression also rose, with 23 people detained and nine cases filed, primarily over social media posts.

The report highlighted a concerning situation for women and children. In April, 294 women and girls faced violence, including 68 rape cases and 79 instances of sexual harassment, while domestic violence claimed 64 women’s lives.

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