NEW DELHI: Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned from her position and fled Dhaka following a violent escalation of protests. She departed from Ganabhaban at around 2:30 pm on Monday, Aug 5, in a military helicopter with her younger sister, Sheikh Rehana for a “safer place”.
Bangladesh’s Prime Minister was reported to have landed in Agartala, Tripura, according to media sources. The escalation of violence has been described as some of the worst since Bangladesh’s independence more than five decades ago.
The protests, which began Sunday morning, were part of a non-cooperation program organized by the Students Against Discrimination. The demonstrators were calling for Hasina’s resignation over a controversial job quota system. Bangladesh Army Chief General Wake-Uz Zaman has confirmed the resignation of Sheikh Hasina. The Army chief has also requested people to maintain peace and calm and to shun violence.
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An interim government will be formed with consultations being held with all political parties and eminent citizens.
The situation deteriorated rapidly as clashes erupted between the protesters and supporters of the ruling Awami League, including activists from the Chhatra League and Jubo League. The violent confrontations have resulted in multiple deaths and widespread destruction, prompting Hasina to vacate the capital amid growing chaos. A large crowd came out on the street for the victory march after breaking into her residence in Dhaka.
As the government struggles to regain control, the resignation of Sheikh Hasina has plunged the country into political uncertainty. The violent student protests, which have lasted for weeks, were sparked by dissatisfaction with a government jobs quota scheme. The situation remains fluid, with significant implications for Bangladesh’s political landscape.
The ongoing violence underscores the deepening crisis in Bangladesh and raises questions about the future stability of the nation.