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Revived Protests Erupt in Bangladesh After Government Crackdown
In Bangladesh, renewed protests have erupted following a severe government crackdown on dissent. Citizens are rallying for democracy and human rights, igniting a wave of activism and highlighting the ongoing struggle against authoritarianism.
Revived Protests in Bangladesh Amid Government Crackdown
Fresh waves of protests have erupted across Bangladesh, following a deadly government crackdown that dismantled a burgeoning student movement. This movement initially sprang from frustrations over a preferential quota system for public-sector jobs, but it has since evolved into a broader expression of discontent with the current regime.
In a bid to quell last month’s protests, which began peacefully but escalated into violence after students were attacked, the government took drastic measures. Authorities detained student leaders, rounded up approximately 10,000 individuals, and accused tens of thousands more of serious offenses including arson and vandalism.
A curfew was imposed alongside a communication blackout, which temporarily subdued the unrest. Furthermore, a court ruling that addressed the controversial quota system provided the students with a significant concession regarding their initial demands. However, this crackdown appears to have intensified public anger rather than suppressing it, leading to a resurgence of protests.
With the lifting of the curfew and the restoration of communication channels, demonstrators have returned to the streets, demanding accountability for the tragic deaths of over 200 individuals during the crackdown. This situation has posed an unprecedented challenge for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, marking the most significant opposition she has faced in her 15-year tenure.
“There’s a storm inside my chest,” chanted a group of protesters gathered near Dhaka College on Saturday. “I’ve bared my chest, go ahead and shoot.” Such sentiments reflect the deep-rooted anger and frustration among the populace.
Salimullah Khan, a university professor who has actively joined the renewed protests, expressed that there is widespread outrage over the killings. He emphasized that there is little faith in the authorities who executed the crackdown to deliver any form of justice.