The number of rape incidents and political violence increased in the country in March compared with February.

At least 66 rape incidents were reported in March, up from 50 in February, according to a report published on Tuesday by rights watchdog Manabadhikar Shongskriti Foundation.

MSF prepared the report based on information gathered from more than 20 national and local newspapers as well as its own investigations.

At least 14 people were killed in 56 incidents of political violence in March, compared with two deaths in 18 such incidents in February, the data show.

According to MSF, 289 cases of violence against women and children occurred in March, though the number was 253 in February.

‘There are strict laws in the country against violence against women and children, but the effective role of the authorities in suppressing and controlling crime is not evident,’ the organisation said in a statement on Tuesday.

It called for quick and effective steps to eliminate violence against women and children.

According to data published on the day by Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, 190 incidents of violence against women and girls were reported in March. At least 35 girls and 22 women were raped in the month.

Of the 14 people killed in political violence in March, 10 were activists of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, two were from Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, and the political identities of the remaining two could not be confirmed, MSF said.

‘Political violence has increased since the 13th parliamentary elections. Most incidents are attributed to internal conflicts and establishing supremacy within the ruling BNP, creating fear among the public,’ the statement said.

At least 19 people were killed in 36 incidents of mob beating in March, compared with 18 deaths in 31 such incidents in February.

The data also show that two people died in law enforcers’ custody in March, though one custodial death was reported in February.

MSF reported 10 incidents of vandalism or arson targeting minority households in March, compared with one such incident in February.