52 Civilians, 13 Police Officers Killed As Protesters Demand Bangladesh Prime Minister Hasina’s Resignation
The unrest erupted as tens of thousands of protesters, demanding Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation, clashed with police in multiple regions, Al Jazeera reports.
At least 52 civilians and 13 police officers have been killed, with dozens more injured, in a fresh wave of violence sweeping Bangladesh.
The unrest erupted as tens of thousands of protesters, demanding Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation, clashed with police in multiple regions, Al Jazeera reports.
According to police and medical reports, the fatalities occurred in several areas, including Dhaka (capital city); Bogura, Pabna, and Rangpur (northern districts); Magura (western district); Comilla (eastern district) and Barisal and Feni (southern districts).
Police attempted to disperse the crowds using tear gas and stun grenades, but the protests have shown no signs of abating.
The protests, which began in July, were sparked by a contentious quota system for government jobs, initially resulting in 200 deaths.
Despite recent court-ordered reductions to the quota, unrest has continued. Hasina has labeled the protesters as “criminals” rather than students, urging a harsh crackdown on the demonstrations.
In response to the escalating protests, the government has imposed a shoot-on-sight curfew, arrested over 11,000 individuals, and shut down mobile internet access.
The protesters have launched a “noncooperation” campaign, disrupting daily life in cities where essential services are struggling to function.
Student activist Prapti Taposhi reported ongoing clashes, highlighting the widespread nature of the unrest. Authorities have announced a three-day holiday, closed courts, and suspended educational institutions. Mobile internet and messaging services remain disabled to curb violence.
Critics accuse the government of using excessive force, a claim the administration denies. The protests, the largest since January’s election-related violence, reflect broader discontent with Prime Minister Hasina’s administration. Dhaka resident Jahirul Islam expressed frustration, stating, “We want the government to resign.”
At least 50 killed as Bangladesh protesters renew call for Hasina to quit
