Violent protests in Bangladesh have resulted in at least 73 deaths and numerous injuries as of Sunday. The unrest began when police used tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse tens of thousands of protesters demanding Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation.
Background
The protests originally started over a job quota issue more than a month ago but were resolved after the Supreme Court eliminated the quota. The situation reignited when students took to the streets, initially seeking justice for those killed in previous protests, and then evolving into demands for the Prime Minister’s resignation. The escalating violence has led the government to impose a curfew starting at 6 pm and declare a three-day nationwide holiday beginning Monday. Additionally, the government has shut down internet services and restricted social media access. This unrest represents a significant challenge for Hasina, who is facing the toughest test of her 20-year leadership following her fourth consecutive term in an election boycotted by the main opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party.
Government Response and Accusations
Prime Minister Hasina has labeled the protesters as “terrorists” aiming to destabilize the nation and called on citizens to suppress them firmly. Critics and human rights groups accuse her administration of using excessive force against demonstrators, a claim her government denies.
Violence and Casualties
On Sunday, protesters blocked major highways as student-led non-cooperation programs intensified, leading to nationwide clashes. In the northwestern district of Sirajganj, twelve policemen were beaten to death. In Dhaka, at least eight people, including two students and a ruling party leader, were killed amid intense clashes. In the central district of Munsiganj, two construction workers were killed, and 30 others injured in a confrontation between protesters, police, and ruling party activists. Although witnesses reported bullet wounds on the deceased, police deny using live ammunition.
In the northeastern district of Pabna, clashes between protesters and Awami League party activists resulted in at least three deaths and 50 injuries. Violence in the northern district of Bogura claimed three lives, while 53 more deaths occurred across 12 other districts.
Attacks on Medical Facilities
Health Minister Samanta Lal Sen condemned the vandalism of a medical college hospital and the burning of vehicles, including an ambulance, in Dhaka. He described such attacks on healthcare facilities as unacceptable.
