Last Updated on 20/07/2024 by wccexam Desk
The ongoing protests in Bangladesh, primarily led by students, have escalated into a national crisis, prompting the government to impose a curfew and deploy military forces. The unrest, which has resulted in at least 105 deaths, is centered around a controversial job quota system that reserves a significant percentage of government jobs for families of those who fought in the 1971 war of independence against Pakistan.
Background of the Protests
The protests began in late June 2024, fueled by widespread discontent over the reintroduction of a job quota system that had been abolished in 2018 following previous student protests. This system reserves up to 30% of government jobs for veterans’ families, a policy many students argue disproportionately benefits supporters of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League party. The demonstrators are demanding a merit-based hiring system instead, citing high unemployment rates among the youth, which have been exacerbated by economic challenges, including inflation and shrinking foreign reserves.
Escalation of Violence
Tensions reached a boiling point earlier this week when protests turned violent after clashes between students and police, leading to a heavy-handed crackdown by security forces. Reports indicate that police used live ammunition and tear gas against protesters, resulting in numerous casualties, including students and journalists. The situation intensified when protesters stormed a prison in Narsingdi, freeing hundreds of inmates and setting the facility ablaze.
In response to the escalating violence, the government declared a nationwide curfew and restricted communications, including a blackout of mobile data and text messaging services. Major news channels went off the air, further limiting information flow during this critical period.
Government Response
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has publicly invited student leaders for dialogue, but many protesters have dismissed these overtures, stating that dialogue cannot coexist with violence. The government has faced criticism for its handling of the protests, with accusations of excessive force and human rights violations from both local and international observers, including the United Nations.
Additionally, the official websites of the central bank, the Prime Minister’s office, and the police were reportedly hacked by a group calling itself “THE R3SISTANC3.” The hackers posted messages on these sites declaring that the protests had escalated to “war” and criticized the government’s actions to suppress dissent.
International Reactions
The violence and government crackdown have drawn international attention, with various countries and organizations calling for restraint and respect for human rights. The U.S. State Department emphasized the need for freedom of expression and safety for protesters, while the UN human rights chief condemned the attacks on student protesters as “shocking and unacceptable” and demanded accountability for the violence.
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As the situation in Bangladesh continues to unfold, the potential for further unrest remains high. The government’s response to the protests, including military deployment and communication blackouts, raises concerns about civil liberties and the future of political discourse in the country. The protests represent not only a challenge to Sheikh Hasina’s long-standing rule but also reflect deeper societal issues regarding employment, governance, and the rights of citizens in Bangladesh.