The foremost responsibility of a state is to ensure the safety, dignity, and security of its citizens. Every individual who steps outside the home carries a natural expectation that the state will protect life and property. Yet the recent rise in theft, robbery, mugging, murder, organized crime, mob violence, and so-called "mob justice" across Bangladesh has deeply shaken that confidence. Incidents of innocent people being publicly beaten, humiliated, or even killed based on rumors and suspicion are no longer isolated events. In many cases, people are attacked merely because of unverified allegations spread through social media. Such developments are alarming signs for any civilized society.
A dangerous culture is gradually emerging in which "public punishment" is replacing the rule of law. When judgments are delivered on the streets before a matter reaches the courtroom, and when crowds punish before law enforcement agencies can intervene, it reflects a weakening of state authority and public trust in justice. The deterioration of law and order has now become a national concern. From Dhaka to district towns and rural villages, insecurity is increasing. Ordinary citizens feel unsafe walking outside after dark. Burglary, mugging, and organized robberies are rising, while rural areas are also witnessing the growing influence of criminal groups. According to crime analysts, economic hardship, unemployment, inflation, social inequality, drug addiction, and political instability are among the major reasons behind this increase in criminal activity.
Particularly alarming is the spread of mob violence and "mob justice." Experts argue that when people lose confidence in the judicial system, they begin taking the law into their own hands. This culture of instant punishment is driven by frustration, distrust, and the belief that formal justice is too slow or ineffective. Social media has further intensified the situation. Rumors now spread within minutes, often provoking violent public reactions before authorities can verify any information. People are branded as thieves, child abductors, or criminals without evidence, and angry crowds frequently attack them. In many cases, later investigations prove that the victims were entirely innocent.
Bangladesh urgently needs to restore public confidence in the rule of law. Citizens must believe that justice still exists and that state institutions are capable of protecting them fairly and effectively. History shows that no civilized nation can sustain itself through mob violence or public vengeance.
The misuse of social media platforms has created a dangerous environment of collective hysteria. Videos of public beatings are often recorded and shared online for "viral attention," turning violence into public spectacle. Instead of trying to stop brutality, many people appear more interested in capturing it on camera. Human rights organizations have repeatedly expressed concern over the increasing number of deaths and injuries caused by mob attacks. Perhaps the most disturbing aspect is that many participants believe they are delivering justice, reflecting a serious erosion of trust in state institutions.
The judiciary itself faces significant challenges. Delays in case disposal, lengthy legal procedures, political interference, corruption, and weak witness protection have weakened public confidence in the justice system. Criminal cases often remain unresolved for years, creating frustration among citizens. However, such frustration can never justify taking the law into one's own hands. The higher judiciary of Bangladesh has repeatedly stated that no civilized nation can permit justice to be carried out by mobs.
Questions are also being raised regarding the effectiveness and responsiveness of law enforcement agencies. While police perform professionally in many cases, there are also allegations of delayed response, weak investigations, and political pressure. Law enforcement agencies themselves point to manpower shortages, lack of modern technology, excessive workloads, and inadequate logistical support as major obstacles to maintaining law and order.
At the same time, misconduct and corruption by certain members of law enforcement have damaged public trust. When ordinary citizens experience harassment while seeking legal assistance, confidence in the justice system declines further. Effective crime prevention therefore requires not only strict enforcement but also accountability, professionalism, and public trust. The political culture of intolerance and impunity has also contributed to the worsening situation. Years of political confrontation, abuse of power, and the practice of protecting influential individuals from accountability have weakened respect for legal institutions. When citizens observe that powerful people can often evade justice, the rule of law gradually loses credibility.
At this critical moment, Bangladesh urgently needs to restore public confidence in the rule of law. Citizens must believe that justice still exists and that state institutions are capable of protecting them fairly and effectively. History shows that no civilized nation can sustain itself through mob violence or public vengeance. The alternative to the rule of law is chaos and anarchy. Therefore, alongside strengthening law enforcement, the state must invest in long-term solutions such as reducing unemployment, ensuring faster judicial processes, promoting institutional accountability, improving ethical political culture, and creating public awareness. Greater emphasis must also be placed on community engagement, youth development, and responsible use of social media.
Ultimately, the true strength of a state does not lie merely in force or power, but in its citizens' sense of security and trust in justice. A nation where people feel unsafe, unheard, and unprotected cannot achieve genuine progress. Protecting the rule of law is therefore not only a legal necessity but also a moral and national imperative.
The writer is an Assistant Professor & Head, Department of Sociology, Rosey Mozammel Women's Honours College
