Explosive unrest: How a single word from PM Sheikh Hasina ignited Bangladesh’s streets

The ongoing unrest in Bangladesh has taken a sharp turn as Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina‘s controversial decision to label anti-quota protestors as ‘Razakars’ intensifies the conflict, resulting in over 115 fatalities amidst escalating violence. This label, historically associated with traitors during the 1971 Liberation War, has stirred significant public and political turmoil.

The initial protests were triggered by the reinstatement of a 30% government job quota for freedom fighters’ descendants. This policy decision led to widespread dissatisfaction among students and young professionals who see it as an unjust advantage in an already competitive job market.

The term ‘Razakar’ refers to collaborators with the Pakistani military during Bangladesh’s 1971 independence struggle, known for committing atrocities. By calling the modern protestors ‘Razakars,’ PM Hasina has invoked a powerful and dark historical memory, effectively framing the protests as an act against national integrity.

PM Sheikh Hasina’s use of the term ‘Razakar’ has intensified the protests and political tension in Bangladesh.

Following Hasina’s statement on July 15, the protests have escalated dramatically, with increased violence reported in Dhaka and other major cities. The use of the ‘Razakar’ label has not only angered protestors but also polarized public opinion, deepening the crisis.

The opposition, led by Tarique Rahman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has condemned the label, accusing the government of suppressing legitimate dissent by criminalizing protestors. Rahman’s statements on social media have called for national unity against what he describes as governmental atrocities.

The Prime Minister’s rhetoric reflects a strategic, albeit risky, use of historical narrative to delegitimize the protests. While it might consolidate support among certain factions, it risks alienating a large segment of the youth and intensifying the unrest. The situation underscores the complex interplay between historical memory and contemporary politics in Bangladesh.

The streets of Bangladesh now echo with counter-slogans, transforming PM Hasina’s Razakar reference into a rallying cry against what many perceive as autocratic governance. The continuation of this unrest, coupled with the government’s stern response, could significantly impact Bangladesh’s domestic stability and international image.