Dhaka, Dec. 19 -- The interim government has urged citizens to resist all forms of mob violence and has condemned acts of intimidation, arson and destruction of property, describing the current period as a critical moment in the country's democratic transition.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the government said violence carried out by "a few fringe elements" must not be allowed to derail the transition, as the country prepares for elections and a referendum.

"We strongly and unequivocally condemn all acts of violence, intimidation, arson, and destruction of properties," the statement said.

The government said Bangladesh was standing at a historic crossroads and warned that chaos and hatred posed a direct threat to peace and democra...