Bangladesh Protests: Violent Clashes Leave Nearly 100 Dead; Indian Government Alerts Citizens, Issues Advisory

The protests, primarily fueled by controversy over the government's job quota system, have also sparked calls for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation.

By TVN Bureau Aug 5, 2024, 07:23 IST

In response to the recent intense clashes between protesters and supporters of the ruling Awami League in Bangladesh, the Indian government has issued a stern advisory to its citizens. Indian nationals are strongly advised to avoid traveling to Bangladesh until the situation stabilizes.

The violent unrest has resulted in nearly 100 fatalities and numerous injuries. The protests, primarily fueled by controversy over the government's job quota system, have also sparked calls for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation.

Indian nationals currently in Bangladesh are urged to exercise utmost caution. They should minimize their movements and maintain regular contact with the Indian High Commission in Dhaka. For any emergencies, the High Commission has provided the following contact numbers:

+8801958383679
+8801958383680

This latest surge in violence follows a tragic incident days earlier, where over 200 people, mainly students, were killed in violent clashes with police. The protesters have been demanding the abolition of a controversial quota system that allocates 30% of government jobs to relatives of veterans from Bangladesh's 1971 War of Independence.

The violence escalated this morning as protesters participating in a non-cooperation movement, demanding the government's resignation, clashed with activists from the Awami League, Chhatra League, and Jubo League.

In response to the worsening situation, the Home Ministry has announced an indefinite nationwide curfew starting at 6 pm on Sunday.

Prime Minister Hasina has taken a hard stance against the protests, asserting that those involved in destructive activities under the guise of protesting are not students but terrorists. She has urged the public to take a firm stand against the protesters.

Amid the ongoing unrest, Prime Minister Hasina convened a meeting of the National Committee on Security Affairs at Ganabhaban, as reported by sources from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).