Dhaka, Bangladesh — July 21, 2024 – Bangladesh is under a strict curfew with a “shoot-on-sight” order after deadly clashes claimed 133 lives. The unrest, sparked by controversial civil service hiring rules, has led to widespread protests demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government.
The civil unrest began with student protests against the government’s politicized admission quotas for government jobs. The quota system reserves over half of these jobs for specific groups, including children of veterans from Bangladesh’s 1971 liberation war. Critics argue that these quotas disproportionately benefit those loyal to Hasina, in power since 2009.
On July 20, soldiers began patrolling parts of Dhaka after riot police failed to control the escalating violence. The government imposed an internet blackout on July 18, severely restricting communication and the flow of information.
Growing Public Discontent
The demonstrations have evolved from student-led protests to a broader movement, with citizens demanding government accountability. “It’s not about the rights of the students anymore,” said business owner Hasibul Sheikh. “Our demand is one point now, and that’s the resignation of the government.”
High Court Ruling on Quotas
The current unrest traces back to a High Court decision in June reinstating the quota system. This followed a 2018 government suspension of the quotas due to mass protests. The Supreme Court is expected to issue a ruling on the matter later today.
Severe Crackdown and Rising Death Toll
The curfew, effective since midnight on July 20, was briefly relaxed for essential errands but remains in place. The curfew permits officers to fire on mobs in extreme cases, as confirmed by Obaidul Quader, the general secretary of the ruling Awami League party. The death toll includes 43 killed on July 19, with 23 bodies seen at Dhaka Medical College and Hospital.
Disrupted Communications and Escalating Violence
Authorities have blocked online communications, with several news channels going off the air. Protesters have also stormed and set fire to a prison in Narsingdi, north of Dhaka, leading to the escape of 800 inmates.
Government and Opposition Responses
Representatives from both sides met on July 19 to discuss the crisis. Student leaders demanded reforms to the quota system and the reopening of student dormitories. The main opposition party, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has backed the protests but denies responsibility for the violence.
International Reactions and Evacuations
The US has advised its citizens against traveling to Bangladesh and has allowed non-emergency personnel to leave. India has facilitated the return of 1,000 students, with support extended to students from Nepal and Bhutan.
Table: Key Points of the Bangladesh Civil Unrest
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| July 18 | Internet blackout imposed |
| July 19 | 43 killed in clashes; 23 bodies seen at Dhaka Medical College and Hospital |
| July 20 | Military patrols begin; curfew with “shoot-on-sight” order imposed |
| July 21 | Supreme Court expected to rule on civil service quotas |
The situation remains volatile as the nation awaits the Supreme Court’s decision and the government’s next steps in addressing the unrest.
(With agency inputs)
