Deadly Clashes in Bangladesh: 76 Killed Amid Anti-Government Protests
Dhaka, Bangladesh (SFL Media) – August 4, 2024
At least 76 people have been killed in Bangladesh as clashes between police and anti-government protesters intensify. The unrest, which began as a student-led protest demanding the abolition of quotas in civil service jobs, has now evolved into a widespread anti-government movement calling for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to step down.
The violence escalated when thousands of protesters attacked a police station in Sirajganj, resulting in the deaths of 13 police officers. The police confirmed the attack, noting the significant loss of life among their ranks.
In the capital city of Dhaka, protesters blocked major highways and intersections, demanding justice for those arrested and killed in the recent nationwide violence. Both police and supporters of the governing party were seen using live ammunition, tear gas, and rubber bullets against the protesters. The death toll since the movement began in July has now surpassed 270.
Authorities have imposed a nationwide overnight curfew starting from 18:00 (12:00 GMT) in an attempt to control the unrest. Despite the curfew, the violence has continued to spread across the country, including the northern districts of Bogra, Pabna, and Rangpur.
Law and Justice Minister Anisul Huq stated on the BBC’s Newshour program that the government has shown restraint in handling the situation. “If we had not shown restraint there would have been a bloodbath. I guess our patience has limits,” Huq said.
Access to the internet on mobile devices has been suspended in Dhaka, further complicating the situation for those trying to communicate and organize.
The protests have seen thousands of people gather in Dhaka’s main square, with violent incidents reported in various parts of the city. A police officer, who requested anonymity, described the scene as chaotic. “The whole city has turned into a battleground,” he said, mentioning that protesters had set fire to cars and motorcycles outside a hospital.
Asif Mahmud, a prominent figure in the civil disobedience campaign, has called for a massive march on Dhaka. “The time has come for the final protest,” he declared, urging people to join the movement.
Students Against Discrimination, a group spearheading the demonstrations, has called for a shutdown of all factories and public transport, and urged citizens not to pay taxes or utility bills. The group continues to demand justice for those killed and injured, along with the resignation of Prime Minister Hasina.
In a major crackdown over the past two weeks, around 10,000 people have been detained, including opposition supporters and students. Former military personnel, including ex-army chief General Karim Bhuiyan, have expressed support for the student movement, condemning the government for “egregious killings, torture, disappearances, and mass arrests.”
Prime Minister Hasina, who secured her fourth consecutive term in January elections boycotted by the main opposition, initially offered unconditional dialogue with the student leaders to end the violence. “I want to sit with the agitating students of the movement and listen to them. I want no conflict,” she said. However, the protesters rejected her offer.
Last month, Hasina called in the military to restore order after several police stations and state buildings were set on fire. The Bangladeshi army chief, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, held a meeting with junior officers in Dhaka to assess the security situation, emphasizing the army’s commitment to standing by the people.
Bangladeshi media reports indicate that most of the fatalities in the protests have been due to police gunfire, with thousands injured. The government maintains that police have only fired in self-defense and to protect state properties.
As the protests continue, the situation in Bangladesh remains volatile, with the potential for further violence in the coming days.
