ASIATODAY.ID, DHAKA – Bangladesh is facing an emergency situation due to riots triggered by demonstrations demanding the abolition of the job quota system. The riots have killed 133 people as of Saturday, July 20, 2024.
The demonstrators are now also demanding that Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resign. This demand began to be voiced after the first death toll from the demonstrators last Tuesday.
“This is no longer about students’ rights. We are here as the general public now. Our only demand now is Hasina’s resignation,” said 24-year-old Hasibul Sheikh, one of the demonstrators.
The Hasina-led government is accused by human rights groups of abusing state institutions to strengthen its grip on power, and stifling dissent, including with the killing of opposition activists.
Crisis Group’s Pierre Prakash said that the lack of competitive elections since Hasina took office had led to increasing public frustration.
“Because there is no real alternative at the ballot box, dissatisfied Bangladeshis have little choice but to protest on the streets to make their voices heard,” he said.
“The rising death toll is testament to the absolute intolerance shown by the Bangladeshi authorities towards protests and dissent,” said Babu Ram Pant of Amnesty International.
In an effort to stop mass organizing, authorities have blocked internet networks nationwide, hampering communications in and out of Bangladesh.
Government websites remain offline and major newspapers including the Dhaka Tribune and Daily Star have been unable to update their social media platforms since last Thursday, July 18.
Bangladesh Television, the state broadcaster, also remained offline after its headquarters in Dhaka was torched by protesters the same day. (AT Network)
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