Violent clashes between police and university students in Bangladesh have plunged the nation into turmoil, resulting in at least 150 deaths and leaving many injured, according to reports from those caught up in the violence.
The protests, which began over government job quotas that were perceived as unfair and quickly escalated, have seen police accused of using excessive force against demonstrators. University students, rallying for peaceful protests in Dhaka, were met with tear gas, rubber bullets, and aggressive police tactics, prompting widespread condemnation.
One student, identified as Raya, recounted how what started as a peaceful rally quickly turned chaotic as police intervened forcefully, preventing injured students from receiving prompt medical care.
The situation worsened dramatically on July 19 amid intense clashes near Natun Bazaar. Protesters and police clashed violently, with reports of shotgun fire, tear gas, and even aerial attacks from helicopters. The scene resembled a war zone, with fires, vandalized vehicles, and barricades strewn across the streets.
Hospitals in Dhaka were overwhelmed as scores of young people arrived with gunshot wounds and other injuries. Medical personnel described scenes of chaos and urgency, with emergency surgeries conducted under extreme pressure, highlighting the intensity of the situation.
In a move to restore order, the government imposed a nationwide curfew and deployed the army, further escalating tensions in the capital. The government, however, defended its actions as necessary to maintain law and order in the face of escalating violence.
Amid the chaos, allegations of human rights abuses surfaced.
Nahid Islam, a student leader, reported being abducted, interrogated, and tortured by individuals claiming to be detectives. His ordeal underscored concerns about extrajudicial actions during the unrest.
In response to these allegations, Information Minister Mohammad Ali Arafat pledged to investigate but raised doubts, suggesting potential sabotage to discredit law enforcement.
The fatalities included individuals like Maruf Hossain, a job-seeking graduate caught in the crossfire, and Selim Mandal, a construction worker whose death in a fire added to the tragedy.
Hasib Iqbal, another casualty, was mourned by his family, who expressed shock and disbelief over his sudden death, underscoring the profound impact of these deaths on the families.
The unrest poses a significant challenge to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s administration and marks one of the most serious crises during her tenure.
The situation remains fluid, with concerns over human rights violations and calls for accountability amidst ongoing investigations into the incidents. These investigations are expected to shed light on the circumstances of the protests and the actions of both the protesters and the authorities.
