Mob violence is undermining public safety, instilling fear among citizens. The alliance of mobs, religious extremism, and state inaction allows this brutality to thrive. Such violence is not random; it is a strategic tool of fascism, often used to instill terror before formal political power is attained, as seen historically with Mussolini’s Blackshirts and Hitler’s Brownshirts. In Bangladesh, organized mob attacks represent a religious fascism, supported by state silence, that punishes dissent.
Fascism’s rise depends on creating a binary enemy narrative and shaping public fear, targeting various groups including political opponents and minorities. Mobs justify their violent actions as noble efforts to protect the nation and religion, creating a sense of shared empowerment and collective accountability among their members. This cycle of mob violence often leads to state-sanctioned repression, where the government codifies violence as a reflection of public demand.
To counteract this ongoing threat, it is crucial to foster organized resistance rooted in reason, empathy, and dignity. Breaking the silence around such actions is paramount. Immediate protests against mob violence can help counteract public passivity. In Bangladesh, mobs have attacked various cultural and social institutions, leading to a need for active resistance.
Key strategies for resistance include exposing hate-based narratives, documenting violence for accountability, promoting digital literacy, providing legal support for victims, and reviving a pluralistic culture that celebrates empathy through art and education.
History shows that while mobs may be temporary, justice and solidarity can endure. To combat fascism and preserve democratic values in Bangladesh, dismantling mob mentality is essential. Collective courage and solidarity are vital tools in this struggle.
