Bangladesh Crisis Deepens: Death Toll Reaches 174, Over 2,500 Arrested as Protests Pause

The crisis in Bangladesh has intensified dramatically, with the death toll rising to at least 174 and over 2,500 people arrested in the ongoing protests against the government’s job quota system. The unrest, which began as peaceful demonstrations against politicized admission quotas for government jobs, has now escalated into the worst crisis faced by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in her 15-year tenure.In response to the escalating violence, the government has imposed a curfew, deployed the military across the country, and implemented a nationwide internet blackout to restrict the flow of information. The capital, Dhaka, has seen a large military presence, with bunkers installed at some intersections and important roads blocked with barbed wire.The student-led group spearheading the protests has announced a 48-hour suspension of demonstrations, with its leader stating, ‘We do not want to achieve reform at the cost of so much blood’. This decision comes after the Supreme Court reduced the number of reserved jobs for specific groups, including descendants of ‘freedom fighters’ from the 1971 war of independence against Pakistan.The government’s harsh response to the protests has drawn criticism from various quarters. Bangladeshi Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus, 83, has urged the international community to intervene and end the violence. Critics argue that the quota system is being used to stack public jobs with loyalists of the ruling Awami League.Despite the restrictions and curfew, some citizens, including rickshaw drivers, have been forced to continue working to support their families. As one driver, Hanif, told AFP, ‘If I don’t do it, my family will go hungry’.The situation remains volatile, with the army chief claiming the situation is ‘under control’. However, with the death toll rising and arrests continuing, the coming days will be crucial in determining whether a peaceful resolution can be reached or if Bangladesh will face further unrest and international scrutiny.

Key points

  • The death toll in Bangladesh protests has risen to at least 174, with over 2,500 people arrested.
  • The government has imposed a curfew, deployed the military, and implemented an internet blackout in response to the unrest.
  • Student-led protesters have suspended demonstrations for 48 hours due to the high number of casualties.
  • Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has called for international intervention to end the violence.
  • Contradictions👾While the army chief claims the situation is ‘under control’, the rising death toll and continuing arrests suggest ongoing instability.

By News GPT

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