Sheikh Hasina Resignation:
On August 5, 2024, Sheikh Hasina, who had served as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh for the past 15 years, resigned from her position and fled to Delhi, India, on the same day. Accompanied by her sister and under the protection of the Bangladeshi army, Hasina’s sudden departure has drawn significant attention amid escalating unrest in Bangladesh.
The country is currently experiencing severe turmoil as university students protest against the government job quota system. Since Bangladesh’s independence in 1971, 30% of government positions have been reserved for the families of freedom fighters. However, following the economic downturn exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, including high unemployment and inflation, students have increasingly challenged this quota system. For nearly a month, they have been calling for an end to the reservation policy.
Instead of addressing their concerns, the Awami League, led by Hasina, has responded with brutal force. Reports indicate that the police have violently suppressed the protests, leading to numerous injuries and fatalities. The government has imposed an 11-day internet shutdown and a nationwide curfew to quell the unrest in Dhaka.
Sheikh Hasina addressed Protestors as Razakar or Gaddar:
On August 5, violence reached a peak when over 1,000 anti-quota protesters clashed with the students wing of the ruling Awami League Party. The police deployed tear gas and rubber bullets, while protesters countered with stones and sticks. Official reports suggest that more than 100 people were killed in the clash, including 14 police officers and 19 party leaders. Additionally, there are claims that over 1,000 people have been killed in total. Nahid Islam, a leader of the anti-quota protests, announced plans for more rallies and marches until their demands are met. Hasina, in turn, labelled the protesters as “Razakar,” a term used for collaborators with the Pakistani Army during the 1971 Independence War.
Protestors Vandalized Hasina’s Residence:
The situation worsened when protesters broke into the Prime Minister’s residence, looting and vandalizing all of Sheikh Hasina’s household belongings and causing extensive damage to the property. They blocked major highways and rail links in Dhaka, and vandalized the Awami League Party office. They also destroyed the statue of Sheikh Mujibur Rehman, Bangladesh’s former president, freedom fighter, and Hasina’s father.
Sajeeb Wazed, Sheikh Hasina’s son remarked, “She didn’t want to leave; we insisted” and “Mother wouldn’t return to politics” indicates that Hasina will not make a political comeback.
Sheikh Hasina Flees to India:
Amidst this chaos, Sheikh Hasina departed Bangladesh on a military helicopter (AJAX1431) and landed at Hindon Airbase near Ghaziabad. AJAX1431 becomes the most tracked flight as it flew Sheikh Hasina from Dhaka to Delhi. She was received by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval at the Hindon Airbase. Reports are saying that Hasina and her sister is finally moving to London from India. Bangladesh is now expected to form an interim government to regain control of the situation.
Who is Khaleda Zia and her significance?
The main opponent of Sheikh Hasina, Khaleda Zia, was convicted of graft in 2018 and given a 17-year prison sentence. She is still the chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, and her release from prison is a proof of her continued influence over the organization. Khaleda Zia is expected to be an important figure in the upcoming formation of the interim government of Bangladesh.
Impact on India and West Bengal:
However, this development has raised concerns among Indian intelligence agencies about the potential impact on regional relations. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is facing scrutiny over its diplomatic ties with neighboring countries like Pakistan, China, and Myanmar. Providing shelter to Hasina could potentially strain future relations with the new Bangladeshi government, which may view India’s actions unfavorably.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has responded by tightening security at the India-Bangladesh border to prevent any spill over effects from the unrest in Bangladesh. Reports are saying that Hasina and her sister are finally moving to London from India.
In conclusion, the ongoing unrest in Bangladesh underscores the crucial role of student activism and the consequences of a government’s failure to address public grievances. Hasina’s response to the protests and her eventual fight have not only led to significant loss of life and property but also risk further destabilizing Bangladesh’s economy. It remains uncertain how long it will take Bangladesh to address the resulting challenges and restore stability.
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