Chaos unfolds: Bangladesh imposes curfew, calls in military to quell explosive protests

In a decisive response to escalating student protests across Bangladesh, the government has instituted a nationwide curfew and deployed military forces to maintain order. The curfew, which commenced at midnight on Saturday, was prompted by the failure of police efforts to manage the growing chaos fueled by opposition to the government’s civil service quota system.

The Bangladeshi military’s presence in urban centers marks a significant governmental measure to address the violence that has claimed the lives of at least 115 individuals, according to reports by the news agency AFP. The protests, primarily led by students, criticize the reservation of over half the civil service positions for specific groups, including children of the nation’s 1971 liberation war veterans.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, witnessing the largest unrest since her re-election earlier this year, has faced severe criticism over her administration’s handling of the crisis. The unrest not only stems from the controversial quota system but is also a manifestation of broader societal issues including high unemployment rates among the youth and economic difficulties highlighted by soaring inflation and dwindling foreign exchange reserves.

Bangladesh faces unprecedented turmoil as the military steps in to restore order during massive student protests

On the ground in Dhaka, the capital, the usual morning bustle gave way to an eerie calm as troops patrolled the streets. However, tensions escalated later in the day in the residential area of Rampura, where clashes intensified, resulting in police firing live ammunition at protesters, wounding at least one.

The violence has also taken a toll on the police force, with a spokesperson reporting that 150 officers were hospitalized and another 150 received first aid after confrontations with protesters. Tragically, two officers were reported dead following the assaults.

The severity of the response, including telecommunications blackouts and the suspension of train services, underscores the government’s desperate attempts to regain control. This crisis reflects not only immediate grievances about employment policies but also deeper economic and social turmoil within the country.

As Bangladesh grapples with this profound crisis, the international community watches closely. The measures taken by the government, including the unprecedented curfew and military deployment, highlight the challenges of balancing governance and civil liberties amid widespread civil unrest. The situation remains fluid, with potential long-term implications for the country’s stability and democratic processes.