- By Vivek Raj
- Mon, 05 Aug 2024 10:55 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Bangladesh Violence: At least 300 people have been killed in renewed clashes in Bangladesh that began on Sunday between supporters of the ruling Awami League party and protesters demanding Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation, as reported by AFP. The violence erupted as part of a non-cooperation program led by Students Against Discrimination, who are protesting against a job quota system.
Bangladesh Unrest Against Job Quota System
In response to the violence, the Bangladeshi government has imposed a nationwide curfew indefinitely starting from 6 PM on Sunday. Authorities have also shut down mobile internet and social media platforms including Facebook, Messenger, WhatsApp, and Instagram.
The government has announced a three-day general holiday from Monday to Wednesday.
Bangladesh Railways has suspended all services due to the unrest.
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Hundreds have been injured in the clashes, with 14 policemen reported dead and more than 300 injured. The violence follows a previous round of clashes in which over 200 people were killed.
The protests began last month after a high court ruling reinstated a 30 percent job quota for descendants of freedom fighters from Bangladesh’s 1971 War of Independence. The protests intensified after Prime Minister Hasina refused to reverse the decision, leading to violent confrontations with police and government supporters. Since then, more than 11,000 people have been arrested since the start of the protests.
Prime Minister Hasina described those involved in the unrest as "terrorists" rather than students, accusing them of engaging in "sabotage" under the guise of protest. She urged citizens to take strong measures against them, stating, “I appeal to the countrymen to suppress these terrorists with a firm hand,” she said.
Indian Advisory
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has advised Indian nationals to avoid traveling to Bangladesh and to exercise caution if they are already in the country.
The advisory said, “In view of ongoing developments, Indian nationals are strongly advised against travelling to Bangladesh till further notice. All Indian nationals presently in Bangladesh are advised to exercise extreme caution, restrict their movements and remain in contact with the High Commission of India in Dhaka through their emergency phone numbers: +8801958383679 +8801958383680 +8801937400591.”
UN Human Rights Chief Volker Turk has condemned the violence and called on the Bangladeshi government to protect the rights of peaceful protesters.
“The shocking violence in Bangladesh must stop,” Turk said in a statement.