• The Bangladeshi government imposed a communications blackout, curfews, and shoot on sight orders to quell student protests, resulting in over 130 deaths and widespread human rights violations.
• International Impact: Protests in Bangladesh have sparked international demonstrations, notably in London, where clashes occurred between expatriates and pro-government groups.
The escalating student protests in Bangladesh have reached a critical juncture, with over 130 confirmed dead and thousands injured. The government has imposed a total communications blackout, cutting off internet and mobile data access, in an attempt to curb the unrest. Curfews and military orders to shoot on sight have been issued, further inflaming public outrage against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s administration.
The protests began as a response to the government’s job quota system, which initially reserved 30% of public sector jobs for families of war veterans. Despite recent adjustments scaling the quota back to 7%, the changes have not quelled the anger among students. Many believe the system still favours the elite and politically connected, leaving educated young people with limited job opportunities.
The Protests
Violence erupted as police clashed with protesters using tear gas and rubber bullets. Pro-government student groups also attacked peaceful marchers with sticks, stones, and machetes. The situation further deteriorated when protesters stormed and set fire to the state TV headquarters BTV. Additionally, there were reports of prison breaks with several detainees escaping amidst the chaos.
In response to the growing chaos, the government has closed all educational institutions indefinitely. Major cities, including Dhaka, Chittagong, Rajshahi, and Khulna, are under heavy security presence with the military patrolling the streets. The imposition of curfews and shoot on sight orders by the military has created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among the population.
Reports have emerged of students being tortured and killed while in custody, exacerbating public anger towards the government.
Human rights organisations have condemned these actions, calling for immediate cessation of violence against protesters and the protection of their rights.
Video of student being dumped onto street
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has defended the quota system, arguing that war veterans deserve the highest respect for their sacrifices during the 1971 Liberation War. However, her calls for calm and dialogue have been met with scepticism by many who see her administration as out of touch with the struggles of ordinary citizens. Hasina’s remarks, referring to protesters as “Razakars”—a term for collaborators with Pakistani forces during the 1971 war—have further inflamed tensions, with many viewing the term as derogatory and deeply offensive. Critics argue that such language only serves to alienate and provoke the protesters further.
The international community has expressed concern over the escalating violence. Amnesty International and other human rights groups have urged the Bangladeshi government to ensure the safety of peaceful protesters and to respect freedom of expression and assembly. The US State Department has condemned the use of excessive force against demonstrators.
Reverberations
The violent crackdown in Bangladesh has reverberated internationally, with significant unrest occurring in Whitechapel, London. On July 19th, hundreds of Bangladeshi expatriates and supporters gathered in Altab Ali Park to protest against the actions of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government. The demonstration turned violent when counter-protestors affiliated with the Awami League and Chhatra League provoked clashes, resulting in several injuries and property damage near the Micro Business Centre.
Local authorities, including Tower Hamlets Police, have been actively involved in managing the situation to prevent further violence. Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway emphasised the importance of maintaining order while acknowledging the significant impact of events in Bangladesh on the local community. Social media has seen a proliferation of misinformation and racist rhetoric, complicating the narrative and heightening tensions.
Community leaders and local officials are urging calm and calling for peaceful demonstrations. A non-partisan rally and teach-in organized by the UK-based Bengali group Nijjormanush is planned at Altab Ali Park, aiming to raise awareness and show solidarity with those affected by the violence in Bangladesh.
The Road Ahead
As Bangladesh stands on the brink of further turmoil, the government’s next steps will be crucial. This crisis is seen as the biggest test of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government. Will they admit mistakes were made and seek to be inclusive of the whole nation, or will this period mark the downfall of the administration due to the excessive bloodshed? The future remains uncertain, as the full extent of the situation and the potential for further violence or resolution cannot be fully understood until the communications blackout is lifted. The world watches closely, hoping for a resolution that upholds the principles of democracy and human rights.
