Police in Bangladesh have been given a “shoot-on-sight” mandate and a nationwide curfew has been set as student-led protests continue to shake the nation, with over 100 lives lost. Here’s a breakdown of the escalating situation:
The Situation Unfolds
The curfew, which began at midnight on Friday, is set to last until Sunday morning. It’s part of an urgent effort by police to regain control as the security situation rapidly declines. Military personnel have been deployed to patrol the streets of Dhaka, the capital. The government briefly lifted the curfew on Saturday afternoon, giving people a chance to handle essential tasks, but otherwise, everyone is under strict orders to stay indoors. All public gatherings and demonstrations have been prohibited.
In a dramatic move, the government has imposed a communications blackout. Since Thursday night, internet and social media access have been completely cut off. While official numbers are not being released, local media reports suggest that thousands have been injured and the death toll has risen to 115.
Shoot-on-Sight Orders and Curfew Details
In a drastic escalation, police have been granted permission to use live ammunition against anyone breaching the curfew. Obaidul Quader, the general secretary of the ruling Awami League party, confirmed this severe measure.
These protests are some of the most intense Bangladesh has seen in over a decade. They initially erupted on university campuses earlier this month. Students were voicing their objections against the reinstatement of civil service job quotas they believe are discriminatory and favor the Awami League, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
A Surge in Protests
The unrest has surged beyond university grounds, morphing into a broad anti-government movement. The Hasina administration, in power since 2009, faces accusations of authoritarianism, police brutality, and corruption. Her re-election in January was marred by a boycott from the opposition and widespread claims of rigging. Moreover, Bangladesh's economy has suffered a severe downturn since the onset of COVID-19, leaving millions unemployed and grappling with soaring inflation.
Voices from the Ground
Shafkat Mahmud, a 28-year-old student protester from Uttara, a neighborhood in Dhaka, described the current situation as more than just a student protest. He likened it to a “civil war.” According to Mahmud, the internet blackout initiated by the government led to an escalation in violence, with police switching from rubber bullets to live ammunition. He and fellow protesters were reportedly attacked by pro-government supporters wielding machetes and guns, and buses were seen transporting the deceased.
“Our initial fight was about quotas,” Mahmud said, “but after witnessing the brutality of the police, our cause has broadened. We are now fighting for the government to step down.”
Violence and Attacks
Earlier in the week, pro-government student groups clashed with protesters, and police were accused of inciting violence by using tear gas, rubber bullets, and stun grenades. In response, demonstrators stormed the state-run broadcaster, setting it on fire, and broke into a central Bangladesh prison, freeing hundreds of inmates. Friday saw the deadliest confrontations yet, with reports suggesting that at least 40 people may have been killed in the chaos.
A Path Forward?
Negotiations between representatives from both sides took place late on Friday, aiming for a resolution. Student leaders are pushing for a complete overhaul of the quota system and the reopening of universities. Law and Justice Minister Anisul Huq has indicated that the government is willing to discuss these demands.
Key Points to Watch
- Shoot-on-Sight Orders: Police have been given the authority to use live ammunition against those violating the curfew.
- Nationwide Curfew: Imposed from midnight Friday to Sunday morning, with a temporary lift for essential errands.
- Communications Blackout: Internet and social media have been blocked since Thursday night.
- Escalating Violence: Protests have seen intense clashes, with allegations of brutality from both sides.
- Calls for Reform: Student leaders demand changes to the quota system and the reopening of educational institutions.
As the situation continues to develop, it’s crucial to stay informed and follow reliable sources for updates.
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