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A writ petition was filed with the High Court on Thursday seeking directives to curb violence, public nuisance and excessive noise linked to the 2026 FIFA World Cup celebrations, following reports that at least 11 people have died in fan clashes across the country.
The petition, filed by Supreme Court lawyer Mohammad Shafiqul Islam, sought a rule asking why the authorities’ alleged failure to prevent such incidents should not be declared illegal.
The petitioner also requested the court to direct the government to formulate guidelines regulating the use of giant screens, fireworks and loudspeakers during World Cup match screenings and victory celebrations. The petition further sought effective measures to prohibit loud noise and fireworks after 11:00 pm to protect public health and maintain public order.
Speaking to reporters, Shafiqul Islam said media reports indicated that at least 11 people had been killed in World Cup-related violence since the tournament began. He said excessive use of fireworks and loudspeakers late at night had also disrupted the lives of children, elderly people and other residents.
“The petition has been filed in the public interest to ensure public safety and reduce noise pollution during the World Cup,” he said.
The writ included copies of media reports documenting the fatalities and injuries. According to those reports, disputes between rival football supporters have escalated into violent clashes in different parts of the country, leaving at least 11 people dead and around 45 others injured. Three of the victims reportedly died from stab wounds.
One of the latest incidents occurred on Tuesday night in Dhanpur village of Cumilla’s Adarsha Sadar upazila, where Md Shariful Islam, 32, a Brazil supporter, was killed during a clash between Argentina and Brazil fans.
Meanwhile, Dhaka Metropolitan Police’s Additional Commissioner (Detective Branch) Shafiqul Islam said the Detective Branch would maintain surveillance and strengthen security at venues where World Cup matches are screened on giant displays to prevent untoward incidents.
Commenting on the growing violence, Dr Towhidul Haque, a criminologist and professor at the University of Dhaka, said the incidents reflected a broader culture of intolerance rather than a problem confined to sports.
“Sport is meant to be entertainment, but many people still struggle to accept victory and defeat in a healthy manner,” he said.
He added that similar intolerance is often evident in political, social and cultural spheres, where differing opinions and outcomes are frequently met with hostility instead of acceptance.
The High Court is expected to hear the petition in the coming days.
