The Human Rights Support Society (HRSS) has released a report detailing the concerning state of human rights in February, describing the situation as deeply disappointing. The report claims that despite the public's hope for genuine freedom following the ousting of autocratic Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the formation of an interim government led by Nobel laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus, the government has failed to address key challenges.

The HRSS report, signed by its Executive Director Md. Ijazul Islam, highlights a series of human rights violations throughout the month. These include political violence, extrajudicial killings, attacks on journalists, suppression of freedom of expression, violence against women and children, and vandalism at religious sites. Social crimes such as extortion, theft, robbery, murder, and rape also saw a significant rise, spreading fear and panic among the public.

The report notes that protests erupted on February 5-7 after the banned student wing of the ruling party, Chhatra League, announced plans to broadcast a speech by former autocratic leader Sheikh Hasina. Angry demonstrators attacked the residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in Dhanmondi, Sheikh Hasina’s home Sudha Sadan, and offices and homes of Awami League leaders across the country. Clashes between student groups at educational institutions further heightened tensions.

On February 7, a student named Abul Kasem was killed, and 15-16 others were injured during an attack on the home of former Liberation War Affairs Minister AKM Mozammel Haque in Gazipur.

The HRSS report also raises concerns about irregularities in the joint forces' special operation, "Operation Devil Hunt," aimed at combating terrorism and improving law and order.

According to HRSS, at least 104 incidents of political violence were recorded in February, resulting in 9 deaths and 755 injuries. Of these, 58 incidents occurred within the BNP, leaving 5 dead and 494 injured. Attacks on political leaders and activists were also reported, with 16 such incidents documented.

The report further states that 3 individuals were killed in clashes with law enforcement agencies. On February 20, two youths, Miraj Hossain and Md. Jumman, were killed in a "gunfight" during a joint forces operation in Mohammadpur, Dhaka. On February 24, a clash between the Air Force and locals in Cox’s Bazar resulted in the death of Shihab Kabir Nahid (30) and injuries to several others.

Journalists faced significant threats, with at least 34 targeted in 19 incidents. Sixteen were injured, two were assaulted, four received threats, and one was arrested. Additionally, 11 journalists were implicated in 5 legal cases.

Minority communities were not spared, with at least 3 attacks reported, including the vandalism of 6 idols and a land-grabbing incident. Labor rights violations also surged, with 12 workers killed and 87 injured in 26 incidents.

The report highlights a disturbing rise in violence against women and children, with 107 cases reported, including 53 rapes—38 of which involved minors under 18. Additionally, 104 children faced abuse, with 29 losing their lives and 75 suffering physical or mental trauma.

The HRSS report underscores the urgent need for accountability and reform to address the escalating human rights crisis in the country.