Overview of the Situation
The Bangladesh government has imposed a nationwide curfew and granted police “shoot-on-sight” orders amid escalating student-led protests. These measures come in response to severe unrest that has resulted in over 100 deaths and thousands of injuries.
Bangladesh- Curfew and Communications Blackout
- Curfew: Imposed at midnight on Friday, expected to last until Sunday morning. Briefly lifted on Saturday afternoon for essential errands.
- Communications Blackout: Internet and social media access have been blocked since Thursday night.
Government and Police Response
- Police Actions: Granted powers to open fire on curfew violators. Military personnel are patrolling the capital.
- Official Statements: Obaidul Quader, general secretary of the ruling Awami League, confirmed the use of extreme measures by police.
Background and Causes of Protests
The protests began on university campuses earlier this month, sparked by the reintroduction of civil service job quotas perceived as discriminatory. These demonstrations have now expanded into a larger movement against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government, which faces accusations of authoritarianism, police brutality, and corruption. The economic downturn since the Covid outbreak has further fueled discontent.
Accounts from Protesters
- Shafkat Mahmud: A student protester from Dhaka described the situation as akin to “civil war” and accused the police of escalating violence by using live ammunition after shutting down the internet.
- Pro-Government Attacks: Protesters have been attacked by pro-government supporters wielding machetes and guns.
Escalation of Violence
- Friday’s Clashes: The deadliest day so far, with police allegedly using live ammunition, resulting in at least 40 deaths.
- State-Run Broadcaster and Prison: Protesters set the state-run broadcaster on fire and broke into a prison, freeing hundreds of prisoners.
Attempts at Resolution
- Negotiations: Representatives from both sides met on Friday to discuss potential resolutions. Student leaders demanded the complete reform of the quota system and the reopening of universities.
- Government’s Stance: Law and Justice Minister Anisul Huq indicated openness to discussing the protesters’ demands.
The situation remains tense as the government and protesters continue to clash, with widespread implications for Bangladesh’s stability and governance.
