Protests in Bangladesh escalated from student-led demonstrations against government hiring rules to the overthrow of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s autocratic rule. At least 300 people died in the month-long protests, leading to the military announcing an interim government.
The protests started on July 1 with university students demanding reforms to a quota system for public sector jobs. Violence erupted on July 16, resulting in six deaths, and escalated on July 18 with students rejecting Hasina’s olive branch. The situation worsened on July 21 when the Supreme Court deemed the job quota decision illegal but fell short of protesters’ demands.
Finally, on August 5, Hasina fled as protesters stormed her palace, prompting celebrations across the country. This marked the end of her reign, and the formation of an interim government by the military.
This remarkable turn of events in the South Asian nation of Bangladesh showcases the power of people coming together for change.
Published in Dawn, August 6th, 2024
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