Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned and left the country, confirmed by a source within the Bangladesh Army. Thousands of protesters have stormed the official residence of the Prime Minister. During the intense protests, six people were tragically killed in police firing as they participated in the “Long March to Dhaka,” demanding Hasina’s resignation.
The protest movement, led by Students Against Discrimination, began in response to the government’s proposed quota system. In an attempt to quell the unrest, the Bangladesh government has implemented a complete internet blackout.
Since the protests began in July, the violence has claimed the lives of approximately 300 people, with at least 94 fatalities occurring in fierce clashes on Sunday alone. The students’ singular demand remains clear: the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
In response to the escalating violence, the military has imposed an indefinite curfew, effective Sunday evening, encompassing the capital Dhaka, and other major cities. Previously, the government had enforced a partial curfew with certain exceptions.
Clashes erupted on Sunday morning when protesters, under the banner of Students Against Discrimination, were confronted by supporters of the ruling Awami League, including activists from Chhatra League and Jubo League. The protesters united in their demand for Hasina’s resignation over the controversial job quota system, faced fierce opposition, leading to the tragic escalation of violence.
