Sheikh Hasina Airlifted to India as Clashes in Bangladesh Result in Over 100 Deaths
Dhaka/New Delhi, 5th August 2024: Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was transported to India via military helicopter on Monday, following widespread protests demanding her resignation amidst a deadly anti-government unrest, according to Reuters.
Reports indicate that thousands of demonstrators stormed the Prime Minister’s residence in Dhaka after her departure. There is considerable speculation regarding whether Sheikh Hasina has resigned from her position.
Bangladesh’s army chief, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, is expected to address the nation following violent clashes that have resulted in over 100 fatalities and numerous injuries. The violence prompted hundreds of student activists to protest in defiance of a nationwide curfew.
While the “Long March to Dhaka” was underway, General Waker-Uz-Zaman engaged in discussions with political leaders, including those from the ruling Awami League, the opposition BNP, and other stakeholders at army headquarters.
Key Details:
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her sister, Sheikh Rehana, departed from Dhaka’s official residence. Reports indicate that a military helicopter carrying Sheikh Hasina took off from Bangabhaban around 2:30 p.m. local time, reportedly en route to West Bengal.
Sheikh Hasina’s son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, called on Bangladesh’s security forces to prevent any unauthorized takeover. On Facebook, he emphasized their duty to protect the nation and uphold the constitution, warning against any unelected government disrupting the country’s progress.
Violence erupted on Sunday morning as protesters clashed with supporters of the ruling party across Bangladesh. Police and student demonstrators engaged in confrontations, with security forces using tear gas and stun grenades.
Due to escalating violence, Bangladesh Railways has suspended all services indefinitely, and garment factories have also closed, according to Reuters.
The police reported that 14 officers have been killed in the clashes, with 13 fatalities occurring at Sirajganj’s Enayetpur police station and one in Comilla’s Elliotganj. Additionally, over 300 officers have been injured.
Protests on Sunday included unidentified individuals and activists from the right-wing Islami Shashontantra Andolon, who set up barricades on major highways and within Dhaka.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina labelled the protesters as “terrorists” and urged suppression of those engaging in “sabotage.”
UN human rights chief Volker Turk condemned the violence, calling for an end to the “shocking violence” in Bangladesh. The recent clashes have brought the death toll since early July to at least 300, according to AFP.
In response to the unrest, the Ministry of External Affairs has advised Indian nationals to exercise “extreme caution” and avoid travelling to Bangladesh until further notice.
The Bangladesh Army, while not explicitly supporting the protesters, stated their commitment to the people. Army Chief Waker-Uz-Zaman affirmed that the army remains a symbol of public trust and will continue to support the people and the state.
