After the violence, India has strongly recommended that all its citizens in Bangladesh be extremely cautious and limit their movements.
**Summary**
**New Wave of Violence Hits Bangladesh Cities**
– 97 dead, many injured; offices and vehicles destroyed
– Government imposes indefinite nationwide curfew
On Sunday, a new wave of violence surged across multiple cities in Bangladesh, including the capital, Dhaka. The unrest, which erupted as student protesters clashed with police and ruling party supporters, has resulted in over 97 deaths and numerous injuries. Police used tear gas and stun grenades to disperse the tens of thousands of protesters demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
In response, the government has imposed an indefinite nationwide curfew starting at 6 pm on Sunday— the first such measure during the current protests, which began last month.
The Indian government has strongly advised its citizens to avoid traveling to Bangladesh and to exercise extreme caution. Indian officials in Bangladesh have urged their nationals to remain vigilant due to the unstable situation.
The protests represent a significant challenge for Prime Minister Hasina, who has been in power for over 15 years and returned for a fourth consecutive term in January. The demonstrators are primarily calling for her resignation.
**Latest Developments in Bangladesh Violence**
– India advises its nationals in Bangladesh to be extremely cautious and avoid traveling
– Protests have spread to multiple cities, with significant clashes in Dhaka
– High-speed internet services have been shut down
Protesters, many armed with sticks, have gathered in Dhaka’s Shahbagh Square and clashed with police and pro-government groups in various locations. Unlike earlier protests confined to Dhaka, this violence has spread across the country. Demonstrators have blocked highways, confronted police, and attacked offices and vehicles. The government has responded by shutting down high-speed internet and restricting social media access.
Protesters have targeted public institutions, including the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University in Dhaka. In Uttara, crude bombs and gunshots were reported, and several vehicles were set on fire.
The Indian government has reiterated its warning to nationals in Bangladesh to remain cautious and limit their movements, urging them to stay in touch with the Indian High Commission in Dhaka through emergency contacts.
Prime Minister Hasina and her party have accused opposition groups and the banned Jamaat-e-Islami party of inciting the violence. Hasina has labeled the protesters as terrorists and called for strong measures against them. Her party has also announced that she has ordered the release of detained students who are not charged with serious crimes.
The Bangladesh Army has expressed support for the people but has not taken a clear stance on the protests. Some former military officers have joined the student movement.
The protests began last month over a quota system for government jobs related to the 1971 war veterans. Although the Supreme Court reduced the quota, protests have continued, with demands for accountability for alleged excessive government force. The unrest, which has turned violent, has claimed at least 200 lives nationwide, with Dhaka being the epicenter.
jai hind