Bangladesh: 32 killed as protesters renew demand that PM quit
Over 32 people have been killed and hundreds injured in Bangladesh as protesters returned to the streets, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The clashes broke out when demonstrators attending a non-cooperation event to demand the resignation of the government were met with pushback from Hasina-led Awami League, Chhatra League, and Jubo League activists, PTI reported. The government has imposed an indefinite curfew and implemented a communication blackout.
Why does this story matter?
Students began the protests last month, demanding an end to a quota system that allocated 30% of government jobs for the families of veterans who fought in Bangladesh's 1971 war of independence against Pakistan. As the violence escalated, the country's Supreme Court reduced the quota system to 5% of jobs, with 3% reserved for families of veterans. However, protests have continued, seeking responsibility for the violence that demonstrators blame on the government's use of disproportionate force.
Protesters attack hospital, police respond with tear gas
Protesters attacked Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, a major public hospital in Dhaka's Shahbagh area, setting several vehicles on fire. In Dhaka's Uttara neighborhood, police fired tear gas to disperse hundreds of people who blocked a major highway. Protestors also called for "non-cooperation," asking people to skip work on Sundays, which are considered working days in Bangladesh, and to stop paying their taxes and utility bills.
Visuals from the protest
Indian Embassy issues advisory amid unrest
In light of the escalating violence, the Indian Embassy in Bangladesh issued an advisory on Sunday urging Indian nationals residing in the country to "remain alert." The embassy also provided a helpline number for emergencies. Over 1,000 Indian nationals, mainly students, returned home via land border crossings or flights last month after violent protests against job quotas killed over 200 people.
