A test for the government before the polls

It is quite concerning that there is a sharp rise in mob killings and widespread violence across the country ahead of the 13th parliamentary election. The latest report from Manabadhikar Shongskriti Foundation (MSF) shows that deaths from mob violence more than doubled in January, while custodial deaths, recovery of unidentified bodies, election-related clashes, and attacks on minorities also surged. These incidents reveal a serious breakdown in law enforcement and the justice system.

According to MSF, at least 21 people were killed in mob beatings in January, up from 10 deaths recorded in December. Meanwhile, 15 people died in prison custody in January, up from nine in December, alongside additional deaths in law enforcement custody. During the same period, 57 unidentified bodies were recovered, compared with 48 in December. MSF describes the overall human rights situation as “alarmingly violent and complex,” noting that the state’s failure to take visible action against mob killings has emboldened perpetrators.

Election-related violence has escalated sharply, with four people killed and more than 500 injured in January alone. However, it has been noted that instead of focusing on preventing violence, law enforcement agencies appear increasingly entangled in politically charged case-making. Reportedly, the number of “unnamed accused” in political cases tripled in a month, jumping from 110 to 320. Rights activists warn that this will enable blanket arrests and create fear ahead of the election. January also saw hundreds of incidents of violence against women and children, alongside a sharp rise in attacks on minority communities, including vandalism of temples and idols.

Politicians have also voiced serious concerns about the worsening law-and-order situation and the risk of increased election-time violence—concerns that the government must take seriously. It is the state’s responsibility to ensure that no vested interest groups are allowed to disrupt the election or instil fear in the public mind through violence and intimidation. We urge the government to take immediate and decisive action to prevent further occurrence of such incidents. Those involved in mob violence must be identified and prosecuted, custodial deaths should be independently investigated, and perpetrators of recent political killings must be held accountable, regardless of their affiliations. Without proper action, fear and insecurity could discourage voters and affect the turnout rate, undermining the election’s credibility. The government must send a strong message that violence will not be tolerated.