Deaths from mob violence rose to 32 in May from 21 in April, reflecting a growing tendency of people to take the law into their own hands, according to a report of Manabadhikar Shongskriti Foundation (MSF).

According to the report released on Sunday, political violence declined slightly during the month, with the number of injured falling from 303 in April to 193 in May, but it still remains high and various political parties and internal conflicts continue to destabilize the situation.

 “The number of deaths in mob violence in May rose from 21 to 32 and the number of injuries from 49 to 71, a clear reflection of the increasing tendency for the mob to take the law into its own hands,” says the report.

The report also highlighted an increase in killings, torture and 'push-ins' in border areas that indicates the deterioration of the regional security and human rights situation.

Violence against journalists also declined, dropping from 46 incidents in April to 34 in May. However, cases of legal harassment increased from eight to 13, which the report said indicated continued structural pressure on freedom of expression.

According to the report, the number of unidentified bodies recovered remained largely unchanged, declining marginally from 56 to 53, while deaths in custody increased from six to seven.

An overall analysis of the human rights situation in Bangladesh during the period April to May 2026 shows that there has been some improvement in some indicators, while deterioration in several other key indicators.

The report, signed by MSF Founding President Advocate Sultana Kamal, described the overall human rights situation in Bangladesh as showing a mixed but concerning trend.

It also cited the obstruction of screening of a film “Banalata Express” in Brahmanbaria on May 30 as an example of clear violation of the rule of law and another form of mob culture.