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What Triggered Violence Against Global Brands KFC And Pizza Hut In Bangladesh | TDG Explainer

April 9, 2025, 3:17 pm

What started as peaceful demonstrations in support of Palestine has escalated into violent protests targeting international brands across Bangladesh. Outlets of KFC, Pizza Hut, and Bata have come under attack by angry protesters claiming links between these companies and Israel’s war campaign in Gaza. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what happened, who’s involved, and what it could mean going forward.

Who is involved?

The protests involved students, locals, and political groups across cities like Dhaka, Bogra, Sylhet, Chittagong, and Cox’s Bazar. The brands under attack include Bata, KFC, and Pizza Hut. The police and the interim government under Dr. Muhammad Yunus have also stepped in to manage the situation.

What triggered the violence?

Demonstrators accused certain global brands of having associations with Israel. While the protests began as a show of solidarity for Gaza, they quickly took a violent turn, with crowds vandalising stores and demanding boycotts of “Israeli-linked” products.

When did it happen?

The unrest peaked during nationwide protests held on Monday, with violent incidents reported across multiple Bangladeshi cities. The fallout continued through Tuesday, with police raids and arrests ongoing.

Where did it happen?

Violence was reported in several key urban areas:

Bogra: Protesters attacked a Bata showroom.
Sylhet: A KFC outlet was stormed and vandalised.
Chittagong: KFC and Pizza Hut suffered property damage.
Cox’s Bazar: Protesters hurled stones at store logos.

Why did it escalate?

The backlash stemmed from social media-fueled claims linking these brands to Israel. Despite companies like Bata issuing public statements clarifying they have no political affiliation, the misinformation had already spread. “We are aware of inaccurate claims suggesting that Bata is an Israeli-owned company… It is deeply regrettable,” the company stated.

How is the government responding?

Prime Minister-in-waiting Dr. Muhammad Yunus condemned the attacks, promising strict action. “These attacks and acts of vandalism are an affront to public safety and the rule of law,” Yunus said.

As of now, 49 individuals have been arrested, with multiple cases filed and video footage under review to identify more perpetrators.

What began as a passionate stand for a global cause has turned into a domestic flashpoint, revealing the volatile mix of misinformation, political unrest, and rising extremism in Bangladesh. As authorities race to restore order, the protests serve as a cautionary tale about how global conflicts can have very real local consequences.

Tensions Escalate In Dhaka: Scuffle Between Hindu Protesters And Bangladesh Army

August 14, 2024, 12:55 am

On Tuesday, members of Bangladesh’s Hindu community staged a protest in Dhaka amid escalating unrest. The demonstrations come in the wake of anti-Hindu violence that has plagued the country since last week’s political upheaval. The unrest began after the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the collapse of her Awami League government, following a month-long student-led uprising.

Scuffle with the Bangladesh Army

#WATCH | Bangladesh: Members of the minority Hindu community hold a protest outside Jamuna State Guest House in Dhaka, where Bangladesh interim govt chief Muhammad Yunus is residing. The protestors are holding posters of their family members who went missing during the incidents… pic.twitter.com/uesXUhFJMW

— ANI (@ANI) August 13, 2024

The protest took place outside Dhaka’s Jamuna State Guest House, where Nobel laureate Muhammed Yunus, the leader of the interim government, is currently staying. A brief scuffle erupted between the demonstrators, who were holding posters of missing family members, and Bangladesh Army soldiers stationed to guard the guest house.

Yunus’s Visit and Remarks

Earlier in the day, Yunus visited the historic Dhakeshwari Temple in Dhaka. During his visit, Yunus assured the Hindu community of their safety and urged unity among all citizens. He emphasized that rights should be equal for everyone and cautioned against sectarian divisions.

“Rights are equal for everyone. We are all one people with the same rights. Please assist us and exercise patience,” Yunus stated, according to The Daily Star. He further remarked that the root of current issues lies in the decay of institutional arrangements and stressed the need for reforms.

Impact and International Reaction

Hindus constitute around 8% of Bangladesh’s population, making them the largest minority group in the country. The recent anti-Hindu violence has sparked condemnation from India and some Indian-origin lawmakers in the US, drawing international attention to the situation.

Conclusion

The scuffle in Dhaka highlights the heightened tensions and ongoing unrest in Bangladesh. As the interim government navigates these challenges, the situation remains fluid, with calls for both national and international support to address the violence and political instability.

Sheikh Hasina’s Daughter Says: ‘Heartbroken That I Can’t…’

August 8, 2024, 9:51 am

In the wake of massive political upheaval in Bangladesh, daughter of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Saima Wazed, expressed her deep sorrow and frustration on social media. Saima, who serves as the Regional Director for South-East Asia at the World Health Organization (WHO), shared her distress about the situation in her home country and the personal toll it has taken on her.

“Heartbroken with the loss of life in my country Bangladesh that I love. So heartbroken that I cannot see and hug my mother during this difficult time. I remain committed to my role as RD,” Saima Wazed wrote in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

HAVE A LOOK AT THE POST:

Heartbroken with the loss of life in my country ?? that I love. So heartbroken that I cannot see and hug my mother during this difficult time. I remain committed to my role as RD @WHOSEARO @WHO #HealthForAll #OneWHO

— Saima Wazed (@drSaimaWazed) August 8, 2024

The crisis escalated as Sheikh Hasina, 76, was forced to resign from her position as Prime Minister following weeks of violent protests over a jobs quota system, which resulted in over 400 deaths. Facing a 45-minute ultimatum from the Bangladesh Army, Hasina fled Dhaka on a military aircraft bound for India after resigning.

Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed that the Indian government is providing temporary refuge to Hasina and is awaiting her decision on her next move. “At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from the Bangladesh authorities,” he said.

There had been speculation that Hasina intended to seek asylum in London, but her son, Sajeeb Wazed, refuted these claims. “The reports about her requesting asylum are incorrect. She has not requested asylum anywhere. So the question of the UK or US not responding yet is not true,” he stated.

Sajeeb Wazed also voiced his concern about the attacks on his mother’s party leaders and minorities in the country amidst the ongoing political unrest. He painted a grim picture of Bangladesh’s future, comparing it to conflict-ridden regions. “I wanted to say Pakistan, but it looks more like Bangladesh is becoming like Syria. They (the people of Bangladesh) have made their future. They will have to live with it. It’s going to be bleak, economic growth is going to stop, militancy will continue,” he warned.

In the wake of Hasina’s ouster, Nobel laureate and microfinance pioneer Muhammad Yunus has been appointed to lead the military-backed interim government. Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced that Yunus would head an advisory council comprising up to 15 members.

The situation remains tense as Bangladesh navigates this period of significant political instability and uncertainty.

The U.S. Must Ensure Safety Of Bangladeshi Hindus

August 8, 2024, 2:08 am

Bangladesh is witnessing complete mayhem after the coup backed by the United States saw the removal of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The minority Hindus are being attacked, rounded up and killed. Their houses and temples are being ransacked, looted and set on fire. Horrific videos are emerging of men being murdered and hung upside down from bridges and trees; of a Hindu hostel attacked and students falling to death as they come under stone pelting. Murderous mobs are going around searching for Hindus and anyone associated with the Awami League and India. The 140-year-old house of a famous Bangladeshi Hindu singer, Rahul Ananda, which French President Emmanuel Macron visited in 2023, was burnt down, along with its collection of over 3,000 musical instruments. A hotel owned by an Awami League leader was set on fire, killing 24 people on the spot. An actor, Shanto Khan and his father Selim Khan, who had links with Kolkata’s Bengali film industry were murdered brutally. At least 29 Awami League leaders and their family members have been killed by the so-called protesters. Violence against Hindus has spread to at least 27 districts out of Bangladesh’s 64. Talibani flags are being raised in Dhaka’s streets and proscribed terrorist groups are taking out victory rallies, even as radicalized students try to wipe out memories of the most glorious period of their history, the birth of Bangladesh. In spite of appeals by the US-backed Mohammed Yunus, who is taking charge of the interim government, the situation is escalating.

That a large section of Bangladeshi youths was going down the path of radicalization was known—remember the terror attack on a Dhaka café in 2016 by a few educated and affluent youngsters, killing 24 people? However, at the time, no one would have believed the extent of radicalisation that has seeped into Bangladeshi society, which is becoming apparent only now. This is largely the handiwork of the Jamaat-e-Islami, the descendants of the Razakars, who collaborated with the Pakistan military to perpetuate Rawalpindi GHQ’s rule in Bangladesh. The Jamaat has a huge hold on the poorer sections of the Bangladesh population because of the charitable work that they do through their religious seminaries. They feed the poor and give them a basic madrasa education. In a country like Bangladesh, this is a lot. But in the process, the Jamaat also radicalizes them. Even if Jamaat controls around 10-15% of the total 169 million population of Bangladesh, it would have enough cadre to bring a bustling city like Dhaka to a standstill, which it had done earlier, or carry out a pogrom. Sheikh Hasina tried to counter Jamaat’s hold by promoting the Hefazat-e-Islam, but that group turned out to be equally radical and violent and was able to hold Dhaka to ransom in 2021 during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Bangladesh. If the numerous Islamist groups have their way, they would push Bangladesh to the medieval ages. Just as the Jamaat affiliated Chhatra Shibir (students’ union) goes on a rampage across the country, it is difficult to believe that it is the same country that saw the Shahbag movement in 2013. It was a protest movement by forward looking students asking for the execution of the convicted war criminal and Razakar, Abdul Quader Mollah. That independent bloggers were being attacked and killed by the radicals, fuelled the movement. Hence, it’s beyond shocking to see the turn Bangladesh’s student movement has taken in the last decade, metamorphosing into a retrograde and radical Wahhabi force.
Amid this, the complete silence of the western world on the killing fields of Bangladesh is shocking. Hardly anything of substance is coming from the United Nations Human Rights Office, which has gone quiet after issuing a perfunctory statement calling “for peaceful, inclusive transition and accountability.” This organisation of self-important busybodies is the first to express shock and horror at the slightest evidence—or no evidence—of any transgression in India. The US Senate Foreign Relations Committee chair, Ben Cardin—apparently an “outspoken champion for human rights”—has issued a statement applauding the “restoration of democracy” and establishment of people’s will in Bangladesh, without mentioning a single word about the current violence. Maybe in the American book of morality, a pogrom of Hindu minorities is to be overlooked because it is being caused by the “people’s will”. The western human rights activists too are completely silent, proving that for them it’s all about establishing western hegemony in the name of spreading western values. The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), which has been lobbying with the US State Department to get India blacklisted as a country of particular concern because of the supposed oppression of the minorities, has lost its tongue. The whole “human rights and values industry” is thus exposing itself as a political tool of the West. It is a matter of shame that the world that is so concerned about Islamophobia, does not have any word to spare for the plight of the Hindus of Bangladesh. The only country that can take up the cause of the Hindus is India. It needs to raise the matter with the United States and demand a guarantee for the safety of the Hindus of Bangladesh. The US has broken Bangladesh, it must help mend it.

Sheikh Hasina Flees Bangladesh In Dramatic Escape Amid Turmoil

August 7, 2024, 11:34 pm

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India on Monday, August 5, amid escalating violence in her country. Forced to resign from her post, Hasina left in haste, carrying none of her clothes or daily essentials, according to reports from ANI.

Hasina, her sister Sheikh Rehana, and other associates arrived in India on a C-130 J transport aircraft from Dhaka. Their sudden departure was a desperate move to “save their lives,” leaving them with only the clothes they were wearing.

A Dramatic Escape

The Indian protocol officials, assigned to the entourage, assisted Hasina and her team in acquiring necessary items such as clothing and other essentials. The team, deeply affected by the turmoil and chaos they had witnessed in Bangladesh, arrived in a state of shock.

The entourage included dozens of associates from Bangladesh’s most prominent political family. Upon their arrival in India, Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met with Hasina and ensured their safety and security, relocating them to safe houses in Delhi.

Circumstances Leading to the Escape

Sheikh Hasina and her group fled Dhaka just as protesters stormed her official residence, ransacking buildings and monuments associated with her Awami League party. In the aftermath of her resignation, Bangladesh’s army chief announced the formation of an interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, who is set to take oath on Thursday.

Awaiting Political Asylum

Hasina is expected to stay in New Delhi temporarily as she considers seeking political asylum. Her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, indicated that Hasina has yet to decide between seeking asylum in the United States or the United Kingdom.

Joy emphasized that Hasina’s departure was not her choice but rather a decision driven by concerns for her safety. “I was worried not because she was leaving Bangladesh, but because she didn’t want to leave Bangladesh. We had to convince her. I said this is not a political movement anymore, this is a mob … they are going to kill you,” Joy explained.

Political Uncertainty in Bangladesh

The situation underscores the political instability in Bangladesh and the urgent need for a resolution to restore peace and order. The international community is closely monitoring developments as Bangladesh navigates this turbulent period.

With the interim government poised to take charge, the coming days will be crucial in determining the country’s path forward.

Watch: Who Is Rahul Ananda? Why Was His 140-Year-Old House Set On Fire By Protesters?

August 7, 2024, 4:13 pm

Amidst the violent protests in Bangladesh that resulted in Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and escape from the country, another shocking incident has surfaced involving singer and cultural activist Rahul Ananda. Ananda, who resides in Dhaka’s Dhanmondi 32, was attacked at his home by protesters. He fled the attack along with his wife and teenage son.

According to the Bangladeshi English-language daily, the Daily Star, the assailants broke into his house by smashing the main gate. The attackers looted the entire 140-year-old property, which had been visited by French President Emmanuel Macron in 2023.They seized everything they could find, including 3,000 handmade musical instruments that Rahul Ananda had crafted over the years.Currently, Ananda and his family are hiding in an undisclosed location, as revealed by Saiful Jurnal, a founding member of Ananda’s band, Joler Gaan.

HAVE A LOOK:

That house belonged to a famous Hindu Musician of #Bangladesh Rahul Ananda. IsIamists set it on Fire last night…

But Believe in ISIS toilet cleaners….all is well there….No Hindu is being attacked… No genocide is happening.. pic.twitter.com/YTdL9jrSIX

— Mr Sinha (@MrSinha_) August 7, 2024

Who is Rahul Ananda?

Rahul Ananda is the lead vocalist of the folk band Joler Gaan. Born in Moulvi Bazar in 1976, he earned a Master’s degree in Fine Arts with a specialization in Graphic Design from the University of Dhaka.Beyond his musical talents, Ananda is a prominent actor with the Bangladeshi theater group Prachyanat. In recent years, he has participated in eight residency programs across the UK, Japan, India, Egypt, and Brazil, showcasing his skills as a visual artist, musician, and actor.

Emmanuel Macron Visited Musician Rahul Ananda Dada’s Home Yesterday At Dhaka. Spent 1.5 Hours At His Home Ans Talked, Listened Music ?

Macron Himself Is A Musician And He After Landing In Dhaka At Night Went To Gala Dinner, At 12.00 Am Midnight Went To His House

Simplicity pic.twitter.com/R3QvV1Mr2k

— বাংলার ছেলে ?? (@iSoumikSaheb) September 11, 2023

Following the attack, Joler Gaan posted a song titled “Love, Peace, and Solidarity” on their official Facebook page. The accompanying caption mentioned that Ananda’s house served as a recording studio for the band.“This song was the last one recorded in this room. Everything you see in the video no longer exists. Amid the turmoil, music brought us together. This song is our farewell gift to all,” read an excerpt from the caption, originally written in Bengali.

WATCH THE VIDEO:

This is house of Bangladeshi Musician Rahul Ananda.

Islamic terrorist attacked this house and burnt it. More than 5000 musicial instrument destroyed.

Islamic Democracy! pic.twitter.com/WtH5d4X5cg

— Facts (@BefittingFacts) August 7, 2024

Escalating Protests

The protests in Bangladesh have intensified over the past few weeks after students initially protested over job quotas and demanded Sheikh Hasina’s resignation. Following her departure, houses of several Hindu celebrities and businesses were torched. The unrest has resulted in widespread chaos and significant property damage, further highlighting the volatile situation in the country.

US Revokes Visa As UK Hesitates On Sheikh Hasina’s Asylum Request

August 7, 2024, 12:02 am

Recent reports indicate that while the United Kingdom hesitates on granting asylum to Sheikh Hasina, former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, the United States has “revoked” her visa. The 76-year-old leader resigned and fled Bangladesh on Monday (August 5), seeking refuge in India temporarily while awaiting asylum approval from the UK.

Has the US Canceled Hasina’s Visa?

BREAKING: The United States government has revoked former #Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s visa to the United States, sources close to the State Department have confirmed. Sheikh Hasina left Bangladesh on Monday afternoon, and is currently in India deciding her next…

— David Bergman (@TheDavidBergman) August 6, 2024

According to News18, the US has “revoked” Hasina’s visa. Journalist David Bergman also reported on X that sources close to the US State Department confirmed the revocation, though it remains unclear if Hasina had intended to travel to the US. Her son, Sajeeb Wazed “Joy,” resides in Virginia with his wife.

Relations between Hasina and the Joe Biden administration have been tense, particularly after the US criticized the January elections in Bangladesh, which the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) boycotted, alleging vote rigging by Hasina’s government. In May, Hasina accused a “Western government” of attempting to establish a military base in Bangladesh without naming any country.

While The Hindu reported that it is unknown if Hasina applied for a US visa after her ousting, officials indicated that her official passport visa is “no longer valid” since she is no longer Prime Minister.

Why is the UK Reluctant to Grant Her Asylum?

The UK has yet to formally respond to Hasina’s asylum request. As per UK immigration law, individuals cannot apply for asylum or temporary refuge from outside the UK. However, officials have confirmed that her request is being processed.

On Monday, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy commented on Bangladesh’s situation but did not address Hasina’s request directly. His statement urged an end to the violence in Bangladesh and called for a UN-led investigation into recent events, highlighting the UK’s commitment to a peaceful and democratic future for Bangladesh.

Hasina’s request for asylum in the UK is complicated by her familial ties there. Her sister, Sheikh Rehana, holds UK citizenship, and her niece, Tulip Siddiq, is a minister in the Labour government. Hasina sought permission to travel to the UK immediately after landing in India, but the UK has yet to approve her travel.

UK government sources stated that the country has a “proud record” of providing protection to those in need but reiterated that asylum should be sought in the first safe country reached. The UK’s historical support for Hasina’s family, including providing refuge to her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, after Bangladesh’s Liberation War, adds complexity to the decision.

Political and Diplomatic Implications

Strategic experts suggest that granting asylum to Hasina could put the UK in a difficult position, especially if a UN investigation implicates her in human rights violations. Allowing her to live in “self-exile” in the UK, given her niece’s position in the Labour government, could present political challenges.

The UK is also mindful of pressure from BNP loyalists and potential allegations against Hasina for actions during her tenure. If the UK declines her asylum request, India is unlikely to host her for an extended period due to its proximity to Bangladesh.

Global Reactions After Sheikh Hasina’s Resignation, Bangladesh Riots

August 6, 2024, 6:01 pm

United States

The United States has called for calm in Bangladesh after long-ruling leader Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country amidst violent anti-government protests. Nearly 100 people were killed on Sunday before she left. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller urged all sides to “refrain from further violence” and noted that the US had seen reports of the army resisting pressure to crack down on protests. Miller emphasized the need for any transition to follow Bangladesh’s laws and for the future government to be decided by the Bangladeshi people.

We have seen the announcement that Prime Minister Hasina resigned from her position and departed Bangladesh. We are monitoring the situation carefully and the United States urges all parties to refrain from further violence. We urge calm and restraint in the days ahead. pic.twitter.com/lDsFotAO34

— Matthew Miller (@StateDeptSpox) August 5, 2024

United Nations

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for a “peaceful, orderly, and democratic transition” in Bangladesh. His spokesman, Farhan Haq, stressed the importance of a “full, independent, impartial, and transparent investigation into all acts of violence.” Guterres expressed solidarity with the people of Bangladesh and underscored the need to respect their human rights.

.@antonioguterres deplores the further loss of life during protests in #Bangladesh over the weekend.

He urges calm and restraint by all sides and emphasizes the importance of a peaceful, orderly and democratic transition.

Full statement: https://t.co/sNqpSO7vZx

— UN Spokesperson (@UN_Spokesperson) August 5, 2024

European Union

The European Union has echoed calls for “calm and restraint.” EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell emphasized the need for an “orderly and peaceful transition towards a democratically elected government” that respects human rights and democratic principles. Borrell also noted assurances from General Waker-Uz-Zaman that the situation would be handled peacefully and that unlawful killings would be impartially investigated.

United Kingdom

Britain, Bangladesh’s former colonial power, has called for the United Nations to lead an investigation into recent events. Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated that the people of Bangladesh deserve a “full and independent UN-led investigation” into the violence of the past few weeks.

The last two weeks in Bangladesh have seen unprecedented levels of violence and tragic loss of life. All sides must work together to restore calm under a transitional government.

My statement on the ongoing situation ⬇️https://t.co/g0n4dfwHE9

— David Lammy (@DavidLammy) August 5, 2024

Canada

Canada’s Foreign Minister Melanie Joly condemned the “human rights violations, deaths, torture, arbitrary arrests, and lethal force” used in response to the protests. Joly urged all parties to respect democratic institutions, processes, and the rule of law during the transition.

My statement following resignation of Bangladesh’s Prime Minister: pic.twitter.com/fYpWjjEQAM

— Mélanie Joly (@melaniejoly) August 6, 2024

World Bank

The World Bank is assessing the impact of recent events in Bangladesh on its loan program. A spokesperson expressed sorrow over the violence and loss of life, and emphasized the Bank’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s development aspirations while hoping for a swift and peaceful resolution.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister Ali Sabry expressed hope for a swift return to peace and stability in Bangladesh. Sabry highlighted the resilience and unity of the Bangladeshi nation, wishing for the people to overcome their challenges and emerge stronger.

Our hearts are with the people of #Bangladesh during these incredibly challenging times. The recent events have led to significant unrest and, tragically, the loss of many lives. We extend our deepest sympathies to the families of those affected and to all who are suffering…

— M U M Ali Sabry (@alisabrypc) August 5, 2024

Russia

The Russian Foreign Ministry expressed hope for a speedy return of political processes in Bangladesh to constitutional norms, highlighting the country’s friendly relations with Bangladesh.

Germany

A spokesperson for the German Foreign Ministry stressed the importance of Bangladesh continuing on its democratic path amid the ongoing crisis.

The international community remains attentive to the developments in Bangladesh, urging for a peaceful and democratic resolution to the political turmoil.

Bangladesh: Tension Mounts As Government And Protesters Rally

August 4, 2024, 10:42 am

Tensions are high in Bangladesh as both anti-government protesters and the ruling Awami League prepare for significant rallies across the nation on Sunday. The demonstrations come on the heels of last month’s deadly clashes over civil service job quotas, which resulted in over 200 deaths.

In the past two weeks, a substantial crackdown by security forces has led to the detention of around 10,000 individuals, including opposition supporters and students. These arrests have further fueled the unrest.

Students Against Discrimination, the group spearheading the anti-government protests, has demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The group has also called for a nationwide disobedience movement starting Sunday, urging citizens to withhold tax and utility payments, and to halt all factory and public transport operations.

Simultaneously, the Awami League, Ms. Hasina’s party, plans to hold its own marches across the country, raising concerns about potential violence as both sides take to the streets.

Nahid Islam, a leader within the student movement, addressed a large crowd in Dhaka on Saturday, demanding accountability from Ms. Hasina. “Sheikh Hasina should not only resign; there should be a trial for the killings, looting, and corruption,” he declared.

The protests present a significant challenge to Ms. Hasina, who secured her fourth consecutive term in January’s elections, which were boycotted by the main opposition. The unrest began last month when students protested the allocation of many civil service jobs to relatives of veterans from Bangladesh 1971 independence war. Despite the government’s decision to scale back the quota, students continue to demand justice for those killed and injured, and now seek Ms. Hasina’s resignation.

Ms. Hasina’s supporters have dismissed calls for her resignation. She has proposed an unconditional dialogue with the student leaders to resolve the conflict peacefully, stating, “I want to sit with the agitating students of the movement and listen to them. I want no conflict.” However, the student protesters have rejected her offer.

Last month, Ms. Hasina deployed the military to restore order after several police stations and government buildings were set ablaze during the protests. General Waker-Uz-Zaman, the Bangladeshi army chief, held a meeting with junior officers in Dhaka to assess the security situation, asserting that the army would continue to support the people and the state.

As protests reignite in multiple cities, the government is grappling with growing public anger over its initial response to the demonstrations. Bangladeshi media reports that most of the fatalities from last month’s protests were due to police gunfire. Thousands were injured in the violence. The government maintains that police only fired in self-defense and to protect state properties.

The coming days in Bangladesh are crucial for both the government and the opposition, as the nation watches to see how these rival rallies unfold and what impact they will have on Bangladesh’s political landscape.

Bangladesh: 314 Students Enter India Due To Protests, BSF Reports

July 22, 2024, 11:12 am

On Sunday, a significant number of students from India and Nepal were evacuated from Bangladesh due to ongoing unrest over a recent Supreme Court ruling that reduced reservation quotas in government jobs. A total of 314 students crossed into India through the Srimantapur and Akhaura Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) in Tripura, bringing the total number of evacuees to 693.

According to a senior official from the Border Security Force (BSF), 152 students entered India through the Akhaura ICP, while 162 crossed via the Srimantapur ICP. The BSF Tripura Frontiers Inspector General, Piyush Purushottam Das, noted that the current unrest in Bangladesh, triggered by protests against the reservation quota reduction, is posing significant security challenges. Tripura, being a border state surrounded by Bangladesh, is particularly affected by these developments.

The situation in Bangladesh has led to heightened security concerns and has implications for the BSF’s operations in the region. The ongoing protests have intensified, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with the changes in government job reservation policies.

Bangladesh Imposes Curfew as Protests Kill 105; 400+ Indians Evacuated

July 20, 2024, 12:39 pm

On July 19, 2024, the Bangladesh government, led by Sheikh Hasina, imposed a nationwide curfew and deployed military forces following violent protests over government job quotas. The clashes have resulted in at least 105 deaths and over 1,500 injuries.

The protests, primarily led by students, are against a quota system that they believe unfairly benefits political allies and the families of war heroes from the 1971 independence war. The unrest has intensified, with protesters setting fire to the state broadcaster and attacking a jail in Narsingdi, where hundreds of inmates were freed. The violence has caused shutdowns of metro services, railways, and mobile internet in some areas. Many media outlets have also been disrupted, with some websites and news channels going offline or being hacked.

In response, the government has enforced a curfew and sent in military forces to restore order. Despite these measures, the violence continues, and clashes between protesters and security forces are ongoing.

India has been actively evacuating its nationals due to the unrest. Over 400 Indians have been evacuated from Bangladesh so far, with around 245 crossing through the Gede immigration check post in West Bengal and 202 through the Dawki check post in Meghalaya. Nepalese and Bhutanese nationals have also been evacuated.

13 Nepalese students crossed over along with 245 Indians via a land border crossing in West Bengal on Friday. https://t.co/7VdaAQPhDz

— Rezaul Hasan Laskar (@Rezhasan) July 20, 2024

Schools and universities in Bangladesh are closed, and public gatherings are restricted. The unrest has caused major disruptions in Dhaka and other cities, with the international community closely monitoring the situation.

Indian Residents in Bangladesh Urged to Avoid Travel Amid Anti-Quota Protests

July 18, 2024, 1:08 pm

Indian citizens residing in Bangladesh have been advised to avoid traveling and limit their movements amid ongoing nationwide protests against the government’s job quota system. The Indian High Commission in Dhaka released an advisory urging the Indian community and students to stay within their living premises as much as possible.

High Commission’s Statement

“In view of the ongoing situation in Bangladesh, the Indian community members and the Indian students residing in Bangladesh are advised to avoid travel and minimize their movement outside their living premises,” the Indian High Commission in Dhaka stated in its advisory.

Emergency Assistance

The advisory also provided instructions for Indian residents in case of emergencies. They were encouraged to reach out to the High Commission and the Assistant High Commissions at their 24-hour emergency numbers if they need assistance.

Reason Behind the Protests

The nationwide strike in Bangladesh centers around demands to abolish a quota system for government jobs. Opponents of the system argue that it unfairly benefits members of Bangladesh’s ruling party, leading to widespread discontent and protests.

Current Situation in Bangladesh

The situation in Bangladesh has become increasingly tense as protesters continue to call for the end of the job quota system. This has led to disruptions and safety concerns, prompting the Indian High Commission to issue a travel advisory for Indian residents in the country.