Bangladesh Riots: What’s Behind the Student Protests Against PM Sheikh Hasina?
In Bangladesh, nearly 100 people died on Sunday due to clashes between police and anti-government protesters. The unrest began with students demanding Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and has escalated into widespread violence. Over the past two weeks, around 10,000 people have been detained.
Why are students protesting? Students initially protested against job quotas they felt favored Hasina’s ruling party. The movement grew to include broader discontent with Hasina’s government, which many accuse of autocratic practices. Despite a Supreme Court ruling against job quotas, the unrest has continued.
Timeline of Key Events:
- July 1: Students started blockades to demand quota reforms, which Hasina dismissed.
- July 16: Violence in Dhaka led to six deaths; the government closed schools.
- July 18: Protests continued despite Hasina’s appeal, resulting in 32 deaths and injuries. The government imposed an internet blackout.
- July 21: The Supreme Court ruled against job quotas, but the protesters’ demands were not fully met.
- August 4: Clashes resulted in 68 deaths, including 14 police officers. Calls for troop withdrawal and a major march on Dhaka are underway.
