An updated report documents the occurrence of over 100 custodial deaths in Bangladesh during a 22-month period from September 2024 to June 2026. Published by the Global Center for Democratic Governance (GCDG), the publication records 101 documented cases, examining serious concerns regarding the protection of the right to life, judicial oversight, and enforcement of the rule of law within the criminal justice system.
Key figures and overview
As stated in the report:
- 101 Documented Cases: Recorded across the 22-month reporting period from September 2024 to June 2026.
- Month-wise Distribution: Highlights fluctuating monthly figures, ranging across multiple districts and involving individuals from diverse professions and political affiliations.
What the report covers
The report outlines various dimensions of the crisis through detailed documentation:
- Individual Victim Records: Lists each documented case with name, date, address, identity, and source verification links or QR codes.
- Systemic Concerns: Highlights persistent allegations of arbitrary detention, denial of fair trial guarantees, and a lack of accountability for human rights violations.
- Information Constraints: Points out that restrictions on media freedom, censorship, and the intimidation of journalists and human rights defenders may mean the actual number of custodial deaths is significantly higher.
Calls for action and accountability
The report emphasizes that every death in state custody requires a prompt, independent, impartial, and effective investigation in accordance with international human rights standards. It calls upon the Government of Bangladesh, the United Nations, international human rights mechanisms, and global democratic institutions to ensure transparency, support independent inquiries, and hold perpetrators accountable through fair judicial proceedings.
Read the Full Report
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Report details
- Title: Death Without Trial in Bangladesh: Over 100 Custodial Deaths Documented During the 22-Month Period from September 2024 to June 2026
- Prepared and published by: Global Center for Democratic Governance (GCDG)
- Reporting period: September 2024 – June 2026
- First published: 01 July 2025
- Latest revision: 24 June 2026 (4th Revised Edition)
The findings, allegations and opinions in this report are those of its publisher.
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