The nation of Bangladesh is in turmoil as a deadly crackdown on student-led demonstrations against government job quotas continues. The government has enforced a nationwide curfew, with military personnel and police patrolling the streets of Dhaka. Dozens have been killed and thousands injured, with a death toll of 110. The government blames protesters for violence and damage to public property, with soldiers setting up checkpoints to block protests fueled by economic insecurity.
An internet blackout remains in place, with text message services disrupted. The curfew was briefly eased for supplies shopping, with reports of gunfire in Dhaka. The mood is sombre as many question the heavy crackdown on peaceful protests. The curfew is expected to continue at least until early Sunday.
The protests began over a court order reinstating a job quota for veterans’ families, but have since grown to include economic frustrations and high unemployment among youth. Many ordinary citizens have joined the demonstrations, leading to the largest threat to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government since her re-election. She has cancelled planned trips to deal with the crisis.
Protesters are demanding accountability before engaging in talks with the government, with a court temporarily suspending the job quota reinstatement. Opposition party leaders supporting the protests have been arrested. India has facilitated the return of Indian nationals from Bangladesh and is providing assistance to students. The situation in Bangladesh remains tense as the government attempts to quell protests and restore order.
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