In Shahbagh, a group of friends gathered at a tea stall one evening on April 10, amidst the city’s energy and the upcoming Pahela Baishakh festivities. They were simply present, without engaging in any provocative activities. However, their mere presence seemed to draw attention and spark controversy.
A crowd assembled under the banner of “Azadi Andolon,” chanting inflammatory slogans that quickly led to a series of events: identification, labeling, escalation, and ultimately, physical assault. Shockingly, the violence unfolded just a few steps away from the Shahbagh Police Station, without any intervention.
The next day in Kushtia, a Sufi spiritual leader was tragically killed at his dargah following the circulation of an old video that allegedly offended religious sentiments. Despite police presence and prior warnings, the incident unfolded, highlighting the blurred line between anticipation and prevention in a state that claims authority.
These recurring incidents paint a troubling picture of familiarity. Accusations of “hurting religious sentiments” have become a contentious issue in Bangladesh’s public discourse for years. The legal framework, particularly laws like the former Digital Security Act, has made it easy to file subjective claims without substantial evidence.
Under the tenure of Sheikh Hasina, the flexible interpretation of these laws led to numerous cases targeting individuals for allegedly hurting religious sentiments. By early 2024, over 500 cases had been filed under the DSA related to such offenses. The lack of clarity on what constitutes religious offense allowed for the manipulation of majoritarian sentiments to justify state actions and public aggression.
Subsequently, during the post-uprising period, conservative forces gained momentum, emboldened to enforce their beliefs through violent means in the name of religion and populism. Incidents like the brutal public execution of Dipu Chandra Das and desecration of shrines across the country became alarmingly common.
Between August 29, 2024, and April 11, 2025, over a hundred shrines were attacked, and the incidents of mob violence resulting in casualties surged. The interim government acknowledged at least 46 temple-related violence incidents, alongside the cancellation of cultural events and pervasive harassment.
The following administration pledged to address mob violence promptly after witnessing the attacks unfold under their watch. The incidents signify a troubling shift towards a society where individuals dictate religious practices, social interactions, and belonging, eroding the fabric of multicultural coexistence.
These orchestrated interventions represent a shift towards microfascism, where individuals use force to enforce a narrow moral code in public spaces. This microfascism operates subtly, shaping societal norms through religious justifications, restricting dissent, and homogenizing behaviors.
Addressing the crimes committed against communities requires immediate action and accountability. However, a broader societal transformation is underway, diminishing the diverse and inclusive nature of daily life in favor of a restrictive and punitive environment. Combatting microfascism demands introspection and a collective effort to confront authoritarian tendencies embedded in everyday interactions.
