U.S.-based rights groups warn that Bangladesh’s February 2026 election risks becoming non-inclusive, amid allegations of minority persecution, repression of opposition, and democratic backsliding.
Bangladesh’s Election Commission has approved 55,454 observers for the upcoming election. Allegations suggest that organizations like PASA and CARD are deploying thousands of politically biased activists to manage the election narrative.
Ramesh Chandra Sen died in prison custody on Feb 7, 2026. Human rights monitors report 112 custodial deaths of Awami League affiliates since August 2024, sparkings calls for judicial inquiry.
The custodial death of former minister Ramesh Chandra Sen has intensified scrutiny of Bangladesh’s prison healthcare, political arrests, and alleged abuses against families under the interim government.
At a Washington policy forum, analysts warned that sidelining the Awami League reflects fear of electoral defeat and risks undermining Bangladesh’s democracy, stability, and international standing.
