Students shout slogans during a protest march as they demand justice for victims arrested and killed in the recent nationwide violence over job quotas, in Dhaka. (Image: AFP)
Student protesters continue campaign until Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigns
Bangladeshi student leaders declared a civil disobedience campaign until Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigns after a deadly crackdown on protesters. The rallies, triggered by civil service job quotas, resulted in over 200 deaths. Troop deployment and curfews did not deter protesters, leading to a non-cooperation movement. The group behind the protests rejected talks with Hasina and demanded her resignation.
Students Against Discrimination urged citizens to stop paying taxes and utility bills and requested workers to strike. The campaign draws inspiration from Bangladesh’s historical civil disobedience during the 1971 liberation war. Hasina’s government faces accusations of misuse of power and suppression of dissent, sparking anger among the youth facing unemployment. International calls for investigation into the force used on protesters have amplified the situation. With escalating tensions, the question remains whether Hasina will step down or face further resistance.
Author: Shankhyaneel Sarkar