The ruthless attack on independent candidate Hero Alom during the Dhaka-17 by-polls on Monday is a stark reminder of the fragile state of democracy in our country. The assault, orchestrated by alleged ruling party activists, not only threatens the safety and security of political candidates but also undermines the principles of free and fair elections. It is not just an assault on an individual, but a heart-wrenching blow to the aspirations of the underprivileged in our society.

By targeting Alom, the ruling party activists revealed their fear of a candidate who dared to challenge the established power dynamic. Their assault was an attempt to suppress the voice of the marginalised and deny them a rightful place in the democratic arena. It would have wider implications for the upcoming national elections as it raises further concerns about the overall electoral environment in the country. This is not an isolated incident, some days back we saw a similar attack on Syed Mohammad Faizul Karim, the mayoral candidate backed by Islami Andolon Bangladesh in the recently held Barisal city polls.

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What message emanates from the attack on Hero Alom?

The attack on Alom may lead to increased international observation and engagement in the upcoming national elections. International organisations, diplomatic missions, and election monitoring bodies may intensify their efforts to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability during the election period.

The recent visa policy announcement by the US underscores the significance of international scrutiny on the electoral process in Bangladesh. It serves as a warning that actions undermining democracy can have consequences beyond the borders of the country. This incident adds another stain on our fragile electoral process and undermined democracy in the country which may result in further negative consequences for us.

Besides, the attack may discourage individuals, especially independent candidates, from participating in the democratic process, leading to a reduced pool of diverse candidates and limiting the choices available to voters.

The sight of Hero Alom running for his life, pursued by ruling party activists, is a distressing one that should serve as a wake-up call for all those who cherish democracy.

This attack reflects the stark divide between the elite and the marginalised, exposing the deep-rooted prejudices that damage our democracy. Gulshan, known for its opulence and the chosen place of residence for many of the country's elite, became a battleground where the marginalised and the privileged clashed. Alom's presence in this elite constituency was a symbolic act of defiance against a system that perpetuates a stark divide between the "haves" and the "have-nots." The assault on him was an act of desperation to maintain the status quo and deny the aspirations of those who dare to dream beyond their circumstances.

We have to remember that Alom's story is not just about political aspirations; it is a reflection of the indomitable spirit that resides within us all. Born into poverty, Alom's journey represents the dreams and aspirations of countless individuals who strive for a better life. By running as an independent candidate, he shattered the barriers imposed by society and dared to dream of a more inclusive democracy. The assault on him was an attack not only on his physical being, but also on the hopes and dreams of those who see themselves in his struggles.

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Attack on Hero Alom: When dissent begets a beating

As we mourn this attack on a man who defied the odds, we must unite in our condemnation of such unjust acts and strive for a society where every citizen, regardless of their background, can participate in the democratic process without fear or discrimination.

The sight of Hero Alom running for his life, pursued by ruling party activists, is a distressing one that should serve as a wake-up call for all those who cherish democracy. Political violence has no place in a functioning democracy. This incident demonstrates the urgent need for safeguarding the democratic process and ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates, regardless of their affiliation or social standing.

Rabiul Alam is an independent writer and a graduate of Asian College of Journalism, India.