Bangladesh students Protests: Clashes have resulted in at least 105 fatalities nationwide. Over 1,500 individuals have sustained injuries amidst the ongoing unrest.
A demonstrator raises his fist as clashes erupt between protesters, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), and police outside the state-owned Bangladesh Television. The violence, which has spread across the country, follows anti-quota protests led by students in Dhaka.
The government of Bangladesh, under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, implemented a nationwide curfew late Friday evening in response to escalating violence that has plagued the country for several days. The unrest, sparked by disputes over the allocation of government jobs, has led to deadly clashes that have claimed the lives of at least 105 individuals, according to reports from the news agency AFP. In an effort to restore order and ensure public safety, the government has also ordered the deployment of military forces across the nation. The violent confrontations have not only resulted in a significant death toll but have also left over 1,500 people injured, creating a critical situation that demands urgent attention and resolution.
The announcement of the curfew in Bangladesh was made by Obaidul Quader, the general secretary of the ruling Awami League party. He explained that the decision was taken as a necessary measure to support the civilian administration in maintaining law and order. Quader emphasized that the curfew aims to ensure public safety and prevent any potential disturbances during this critical period. The Awami League’s leadership believes that such measures are essential to preserve peace and stability in the country, especially given the recent tensions and events that have unfolded.
In a dramatic turn of events, the government’s decision came mere hours after police and security officials resorted to firing bullets and launching tear gas canisters at protestors, subsequently imposing a ban on all public gatherings in the nation’s capital, Dhaka, on Friday. The protestors, predominantly students, have been engaged in widespread demonstrations not only in Dhaka but also in several other cities across the country. Their primary grievance revolves around the controversial reservation system in public sector jobs. This system includes quotas for various groups, notably the relatives of war heroes who valiantly fought for Bangladesh’s independence from Pakistan in 1971.
They contend that the current system is inherently discriminatory and disproportionately benefits supporters of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Critics argue that this favoritism is deeply rooted in the history of the Awami League party, which spearheaded the independence movement. They claim that the preferential treatment extends beyond mere political allegiance, creating a landscape where merit and qualifications are often overshadowed by political connections.
Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has staunchly defended the country’s quota system, emphasizing the unparalleled contributions and sacrifices made by war veterans during the Liberation War. In her impassioned statements, she articulated that these veterans, who risked their lives and endured immense hardships to secure the nation’s independence, should be accorded the highest respect and recognition. This respect, she asserted, transcends any political affiliation or current political climate. Hasina highlighted that the valor and dedication demonstrated by these individuals form the bedrock of the nation’s history and identity.
This respect, she asserted, transcends any political affiliation or current political climate. Hasina highlighted that the valor and dedication demonstrated by these individuals form the bedrock of the nation’s history and identity. Therefore, maintaining a quota system that honors their service is not just a matter of policy, but a moral obligation to acknowledge and preserve the legacy of those who fought for Bangladesh’s freedom. She reiterated that such measures ensure that the sacrifices of these veterans are neither forgotten nor overshadowed by contemporary political dynamics, thereby fostering a sense of national pride and continuity.
