BANGLADESH ENFORCES CURFEW AMID DEADLY STUDENT PROTESTS

Sat 20 July 2024:

Bangladesh imposed a nationwide curfew to suppress student-led protests against government job quotas, with military and police patrolling Dhaka’s largely empty streets. Soldiers established checkpoints after the government enforced the curfew to prevent further demonstrations exacerbated by economic insecurity.

Violence and Casualties

The protests have turned deadly, with dozens killed and thousands injured. Reuters reported 27 bodies received by Dhaka Medical College Hospital on Friday, bringing the death toll to 114. The authorities reported about 300 police officers injured and blamed protesters for damaging property and inciting violence, accusing opposition parties of instigation.

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Internet Blackout and Curfew Easing

Since Thursday, a near-total internet blackout has been imposed, disrupting text and overseas calls. The curfew was briefly eased on Saturday to allow residents to shop for supplies. Al Jazeera’s Tanvir Chowdhury noted public anxiety and relief at the army’s deployment but highlighted the somber mood due to the high death toll.

Background and Government Response

Protests began peacefully after the High Court reinstated a quota reserving 30% of government jobs for veterans’ families. Economic struggles, including high unemployment, have driven wider public support for the protests. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, facing her largest challenge since re-election, cancelled foreign trips to address the crisis.

Protesters demand accountability before engaging in talks, while opposition leaders and activists have been arrested. India’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs facilitated the return of around 1,000 Indian nationals from Bangladesh and is assisting 4,000 more students.

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

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