Protests in Bangladesh continued on Friday, with demonstrators demanding justice for more than 200 people killed in last month’s violent protests despite reforms to the job quota system announced by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government. Over 2,000 protesters gathered in parts of the capital Dhaka, chanting slogans against the government and demanding justice for the victims, while being monitored by police officers.
In the Uttara neighborhood of Dhaka, police clashed with dozens of students, and security officials used tear gas and stun grenades to disperse stone-throwing protesters. The ongoing demonstrations against Hasina have been fueled by student protests and show no immediate signs of dissipating.
The protests, which originated as a peaceful movement by students against a job quota system they deemed discriminatory, have evolved into a broader rebellion against Hasina, testing her 15-year-long rule like never before. Despite Hasina retaining power for a fourth consecutive term in January, the recent violent unrest presents a significant challenge to her authority.
Internet shutdowns and a shoot-on-sight curfew were implemented by authorities to quell the violent protests, which have caused schools and universities to remain closed. Videos circulated on social media showing clashes between security forces and students, resulting in tragic deaths and injuries.
Although the Supreme Court reduced the veterans’ job quota from 30% to 5% in response to the protests, the anger and unrest have persisted. This dissatisfaction reflects broader public grievances against the government, economic struggles, and a growing resentment towards Hasina’s administration.
The economic discontent in Bangladesh has been exacerbated by the pandemic and other global events, leading to a lack of quality job opportunities for young graduates. Despite some concessions made by the government, protesters are now calling for justice for the victims and some are demanding Hasina’s resignation.
While the violence has somewhat subsided and normalcy is gradually returning, the unrest has triggered international concern and criticism. Opposition parties accuse Hasina of authoritarian tendencies, while she blames them for fueling the violence. The ban on a prominent opposition party, which supported the students, raises concerns about potential further escalation of tensions.
Looking ahead, questions linger about when Bangladesh will return to normalcy, as citizens like Nur Sharmin express their desires for safety and stability in the country. The current situation has left many Bangladeshis yearning for a sense of normality and security in their daily lives.
