Bangladesh in Turmoil: The Student Protests Challenging PM Sheikh Hasina's Government

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Nearly 200 people were killed and thousands injured as Bangladeshi forces violently clashed with student protestors opposing a government quota system; the response included shoot-on-sight orders, a nationwide curfew, and an internet blackout.

Timeline of Events

July 1: Student protests erupted after the Supreme Court upheld a government order reserving 56% of government jobs for freedom fighters (mukti jodha/mukti bahini) from Bangladesh's 1971 liberation war, and their descendants. Students argued this was a move to align the bureaucracy politically with the ruling Awami League.

July 14: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's statement, labeling protestors as "Razakars" (traitors who supported Pakistan in 1971), intensified the unrest. Protestors clashed with police, set fires, and vandalized property. The government responded with a nationwide curfew, internet bans, and shoot-on-sight orders, calling in the army and Rapid Action Forces.

July 21: The Supreme Court's appellate bench reduced the quotas for freedom fighters and their families to 5%. This ruling helped to calm the protests, although students demanded an apology from PM Hasina and the resignation of ministers responsible for the crackdown. In three weeks, nearly 200 were killed, and thousands injured.

Current Situation

Bangladesh is pausing from days of brutal violence as forces clashed with student protestors. Information remains restricted, but the situation appears temporarily calm.

Underlying Issues

The unrest stems from deep social, historical, and political tensions. The quota system was seen by students as a way to politically align the bureaucracy with the Awami League, prompting widespread outrage. The protests, initially about job reservations, now challenge the government's authority and its handling of dissent.

International Reactions

The international community has expressed concern. The UN and the US have called for restraint and the rescindment of shoot-on-sight orders. PM Hasina's tense relationship with the US, due to election sanctions, adds complexity to international responses.

Regional Implications

For India, Bangladesh's turmoil is particularly concerning. India has strong economic and political ties with Bangladesh. Prolonged unrest could disrupt trade, energy cooperation, and connectivity projects. Additionally, the protests carry anti-Indian sentiments due to historical connections with the 1971 liberation war. 

Around 10,000 Indian students are in Bangladesh, and about 7,000 have already been evacuated. Continued instability could further disrupt their lives. West Bengal's response to potential refugee influxes also adds tension to India-Bangladesh relations.

Political Future

The violence challenges PM Hasina's popularity and the democratic fabric of Bangladesh. Losing the support of the younger generation, who have historically played a crucial role in political movements, could be a significant blow to her government.

Conclusion

The crackdown on student protestors and the resulting violence mark a critical moment for PM Sheikh Hasina's government. As a close partner, India must navigate this delicate situation carefully, balancing support for democratic principles with regional stability. The world watches closely, with hopes for a peaceful resolution to Bangladesh's internal strife.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/watch-bangladesh-protests-the-trouble-ahead-for-hasina-government/article68450056.ece