Last updated on August 29th, 2024 at 01:28 pm
Violent Clashes Erupt in Bangladesh
Nearly 100 people were killed in Bangladesh yesterday when thousands of protesters clashed with supporters of the ruling party, asking for the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The violence-stricken country is bracing for further protests today.
Key Updates on Bangladesh Violence
- Death Toll Mounting: Dozens were injured in the running battles, which rendered yesterday one of the bloodiest days since demonstrations began. The actual number of deaths had neared 300, with 98 reported as of now, since the protests began from July. Clash During Non-Cooperation Programme: The violence broke out when protesters belonging to non-cooperation program clashing while demonstrating in front of government supporters who are demanding that the government resign.
- The Bangladesh Home Ministry imposed an indefinite countrywide curfew to cope with the escalating clashes and restricted mobile internet access. A three-day general holiday has been declared to avoid public casualties. March to Dhaka: Student protesters organised a “March to Dhaka” today to press their one-point demand for Prime Minister Hasina’s resignation. Analysts fear the violence may intensify.
- Previous Quota System Clashes: Just days ago, clashes between police and mostly student protesters, asking to abolish the controversial quota system which saved up 30% of government jobs for veterans’ relatives from the 1971 War of Independence, left at least over 200 people dead.
- Advisory to Nationals by India: The Indian government has issued a warning to all its nationals in Bangladesh, urging them to show extreme caution and limit their movements. The Assistant High Commission of India in Sylhet has asked all Indian nationals, including the students, to keep in touch and provided an emergency contact number.
- Statement by UN Human Rights Chief: The “shocking violence” that still takes place in Bangladesh is what Markston, the UN human rights chief, has called it. He has urged the government to stop immediately targeting peaceful protesters.
- Escalation of Protests: The protests, which started over the opposition of civil service job quotas, became some of the worst unrest seen in 15 years of rules under Prime Minister Hasina, and expanded into broader demands for her resignation.
- Pan-Bangladeshi Anti-Government Movement: The movement has received support in various strata of Bangladeshi society, including film stars, musicians, and singers. Songs advocating public support have been greatly in circulation on social media.
- Protesters Spurn Dialogue: In a protest that has refused to die down amidst spiraling violence, protesters dismissed an invitation for dialogue extended by Prime Minister Hasina to thrash out a unified call for the resignation of a government.
