Anti-Government Protests In Bangladesh Leave Nearly 100 Dead

Nearly 100 people, including thirteen police officers, were reportedly killed and hundreds more injured in Bangladesh following the clashes between security forces and anti-government protesters. Reports indicate that police fired tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse thousands of protesters calling for Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign. The government has imposed a nationwide curfew for an indefinite period and has also shut down internet services.

In July, Bangladesh witnessed student protest, which started with a demand to abolish quotas in government jobs. However, it has now turned into a wider anti-government movement. According to a BBC report, both police and some supporters of the ruling party were seen shooting at protesters with live ammunition. Meanwhile, the country is also shutting down government and private offices for three days starting on Monday. As part of the nationwide campaign to pressure the Sheikh Hasina-led government to step down, the protesters also reportedly launched a disobedience movement, urging people not to pay taxes or any utility bills.

Sheikh Hasina, who has been in power for the past 15 years, said that the protesters were "not students but terrorists who are out to destabilise the nation", reported the BBC. Human rights groups have accused Sheikh Hasina's government of using excessive force against protesters. Following the protests, India has strongly advised all its nationals in Bangladesh to exercise "extreme caution" and restrict their movements. In a statement released on August 4, the Ministry of External Affairs also asked its citizens not to travel to Bangladesh till further notice.