875 Lives Lost in Uprisings, 77% by Gunfire: HRSS Report

The Human Rights Support Society (HRSS) has released staggering statistics on the toll of the ongoing mass uprisings in the country. These movements, which began with demands for quota reforms in government jobs, have escalated into widespread protests led by anti-discrimination student groups calling for the government’s resignation.

According to HRSS data, between July 16 and September 9, a total of 875 people lost their lives in these uprisings, with 77% of the fatalities attributed to gunshot wounds. Additionally, the number of injured exceeds 30,000, according to the organization's estimates.

In a press release issued on Friday (September 13), HRSS shared its findings after analyzing reports from 12 national dailies, data from its own research unit, and volunteer input from across the country. The organization suggests the true death toll may exceed 1,000, citing reliable sources from hospitals and various media outlets.

The HRSS report provided a breakdown of the causes of death. Out of the 772 deaths where detailed information was available, 599 individuals (77%) were shot, 61 (8%) died from burns, 85 (11%) were beaten to death, and 27 (4%) succumbed to other causes.

The geographical distribution of the deaths is equally alarming. Of the 875 total casualties, Dhaka division recorded the highest number of fatalities at 540. Other divisions reported as follows: Chittagong (91), Khulna (81), Rajshahi (64), Mymensingh (38), Rangpur (29), Sylhet (20), and Barisal (13).

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The report also analyzed the demographics of those killed, including age, occupation, and cause of death. Between July 16 and August 3, 327 people were killed, and from August 4 to September 9, the death toll rose to 548—many of whom died later while receiving treatment following the fall of the government. Notably, 52% of the victims were students, and 53% were between the ages of 19 and 30.

HRSS identified 743 of the 875 deceased, which included students, workers, journalists, professionals, law enforcement personnel, children, women, and political leaders or supporters. The report noted that 107 children, 6 journalists, 51 law enforcement officers, and 13 women were among those killed.

The report further highlighted the widespread chaos following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation. More than 500 police stations, government buildings, and minority-owned properties were attacked, vandalized, set on fire, or looted across the country.

HRSS also detailed the age distribution of 619 victims, revealing that 70% of those killed were under 30. Of these, 107 were children, 327 were aged between 19 and 30, and 158 were between 31 and 50.

Among the 352 victims for whom occupational data was available, 52% were students, 20% were workers, and 5% were law enforcement personnel.