A new wave of violence has erupted in several cities across Bangladesh, including the capital Dhaka. The clashes involve student protesters, police, and ruling party activists. Protesters are demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her government, following earlier protests that began over a quota system for government jobs.
On Sunday, violent clashes during student protests over quota reforms in Bangladesh led to the deaths of at least 98 people. According to police and medical sources, the overall death toll has reached around 300, as reported by AFP. The protests began last month after the Bangladesh High Court ruled to reinstate a 30% quota for government jobs for the descendants of freedom fighters. When Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina refused to reverse this decision, the protests grew more intense, resulting in violent confrontations with police and government supporters.
Prothom Alo newspaper reported that 97 people, including 14 police officers, have been killed and hundreds more have been injured.
In light of the current situation, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs has advised its citizens to avoid traveling to Bangladesh until further notice. Indian officials have additionally advised their citizens to “remain alert” due to the volatile situation.
For those currently in Bangladesh, the ministry urges them to exercise extreme caution, limit their movements, and stay in touch with the Indian High Commission in Dhaka using the emergency contact numbers: +8801958383679, +8801958383680, and +8801937400591.
The violence started on Sunday morning when protesters from the group Students Against Discrimination, calling for the government’s resignation over the job quota system, were met with opposition from Awami League, Chhatra League, and Jubo League activists.
The government has since imposed an indefinite nationwide curfew starting at 6 pm on Sunday, marking a first since the protests began last month.
To ensure public safety amid the ongoing violent protests, the Bangladesh government announced a three-day general holiday from August 5 to August 7. The house of Bangladesh State Minister for Water Resources Zahid Faruk was vandalized in Barishal, with protesters entering the house, smashing furniture, and attacking the staff. On Saturday, student protesters called for a nationwide civil disobedience campaign until Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government resigns.
In response, Prime Minister Hasina invited protest leaders to meet her at her official residence, Ganabhaban, stating, “I want to sit with the agitating students of the movement and listen to them. I want no conflict,” according to local media.