Bangladesh Violence: Protests Turned into Deadly Bloodbath

Post by: Kanchan Chandel

Photo: AP

Deadly Clashes in Bangladesh: Protests Turn Violent

Anti-government protests in Bangladesh have erupted into nationwide violence, particularly between police and university students, resulting in at least 150 fatalities. The unrest began over disputes regarding new government job quotas, which have now been mostly repealed due to a Supreme Court ruling. The violence peaked on July 19, with intense confrontations in Dhaka, turning parts of the capital into a war zone.

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Protesters in Dhaka reportedly attempted a peaceful rally, but the situation escalated when police began attacking them. Accounts from those affected paint a grim picture of the violence. One student described how the police disrupted their peaceful assembly, while another, now recovering in a hospital, recounted being blindfolded and tortured by individuals claiming to be law enforcement.

Emergency services in Dhaka were overwhelmed by the influx of injured individuals, many of whom had sustained gunshot wounds. An emergency department doctor highlighted the severity of the situation, noting the hospital’s struggle to manage the high volume of casualties, with numerous surgeries performed in a short period.

The government has faced criticism for its use of excessive force, while it has blamed political opponents for inciting the violence. A nationwide internet blackout, initiated on Thursday, has further hampered information flow, with a curfew enforced and thousands of soldiers deployed to maintain order. Limited connectivity was restored on Tuesday, prioritizing banks, tech firms, and media outlets.

The unrest presents a significant challenge to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who secured a fourth term in January's controversial election. On July 19, the violence was particularly severe, with intense clashes between protesters and police, including the use of shotguns, tear gas, and even aerial fire from helicopters. Streets were littered with burnt vehicles, barricades, and debris.

Hospitals struggled to handle the surge in casualties, with many arriving with severe injuries. One doctor described the experience as particularly harrowing, with frequent admissions of critically injured patients. The violence led to widespread fear and chaos, as evidenced by the experiences of students like Nahid Islam, who was abducted and tortured by alleged police.

The impact on individuals and families has been profound. Victims such as Maruf Hossain, a 21-year-old jobseeker, and Selim Mandal, a construction worker who perished in a fire, highlight the personal toll of the unrest. In some cases, the exact circumstances of deaths remain unclear, with families grappling with the loss of loved ones under tragic conditions.

The ongoing crisis underscores the deep divisions and turmoil in Bangladesh as the government and opposition continue to clash over political and social issues.

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