Just a month after becoming Bangladesh’s army chief, General Waqar-ul-Zaman hit the headlines on Monday by announcing the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled the country.
General Waqar-ul-Zaman said in a televised address that after discussions with “all political parties” it was decided that an interim government would be established.
It was not clear in his address whether the military would play a role in this, but he said, “We will now go to the president of the country, where we will talk about the formation of the interim government and the management of the nation.” Will do.’
Bangladeshi police returned to duty on Monday, concluding a nearly week-long strike that started after the military took control of the nation and forced Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to flee abroad.
Following Sheikh Hasina’s resignation after 15 years in power, police disappeared from the streets of Dhaka, the country’s capital, last week.
The security forces promised to resume their duties once their safety was ensured and agreed to return to work after extensive talks with the new interim government, led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus.
Police have faced criticism for leading a brutal crackdown on anti-government protests, which resulted in over 450 fatalities, including 42 officers.
The protests, primarily organized by students against Ms. Hasina’s administration, were mostly peaceful until police responded with violence to disperse them.
According to the national police union, approximately 450 out of the country’s 600 police stations have been burned or vandalized during the unrest.
Several of these stations reopened late last week under military protection, as the military is regarded with greater respect for its overall refusal to engage in the repression.
With MAP
Bangladeshi Police Return to Work After Week-Long Strike Amid Political Turmoil
Bangladesh is currently facing a significant political crisis following the recent military coup that ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, marking the end of her 15-year tenure in power. After her resignation, police forces vanished from the streets of Dhaka, triggering a wave of protests and public unrest in the megacity.
Background of the Current Crisis
The political landscape in Bangladesh has been tumultuous, with widespread protests erupting against the government, demanding democratic reforms and justice for those affected by state violence. The protests saw an alarming escalation, leading to over 450 fatalities, including 42 police officers, as clashes intensified.
Police in Bangladesh: Role and Recent Developments
Typically regarded as the primary agents of law enforcement, Bangladeshi police were at the center of the brutal crackdown on anti-government protests. As unrest peaked, police stations across the nation faced substantial attacks, with reports indicating that about 450 of the 600 police stations were vandalized or burned.
In response to the escalating violence, the police force declared a strike, demanding guaranteed safety for its members. After exhaustive negotiations with the newly formed interim government, led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus, police officials consented to terminate their strike and return to duty, acknowledging that their safety would be prioritized.
Key Points from Recent Events
- Bann on protests lifted, allowing citizens to demonstrate peacefully.
- Police stations gradually reopening with military support.
- Return to normalcy as police resume patrols and law enforcement activities.
- Continued criticism of police for handling of protests.
The Impact of Political Turmoil on Daily Life
The recent developments have significantly affected the daily lives of Bangladeshi citizens. With police absent from the streets, concern for public safety surged, leading to increased fears of crime and violence. Residents in urban areas like Dhaka expressed anxiety over the potential for lawlessness as the power dynamics shifted.
Public Sentiment and Future Outlook
Public sentiment remains largely divided as citizens grapple with the implications of the military’s intervention and the return of police forces. On one hand, there is appreciation for the military’s perceived restraint and refusal to engage in the violent repression seen previously. On the other hand, distrust in the new interim government lingers as many question its legitimacy and commitment to restoring democratic governance.
Comparative Analysis: Police Response in Other Countries
The situation in Bangladesh serves as a mirror to the experiences of various nations facing political strife. Comparing Bangladesh’s police response to incidents in other countries can provide valuable insights into law enforcement’s role during times of upheaval. Here’s a brief overview:
| Country | Incident | Police Response | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | George Floyd Protests (2020) | Mixed response, initial aggressive tactics | Increased scrutiny and police reforms |
| France | Yellow Vest Protests (2018-2019) | Heavy police presence, frequent clashes | Government concessions and public debate |
| Turkey | Gezi Park Protests (2013) | Severe crackdowns and national unrest | Shift towards authoritarian rule |
Practical Tips for Ensuring Safety During Political Unrest
For individuals navigating the current turmoil in Bangladesh, there are several practical steps to ensure personal safety:
- Stay informed through reliable news sources to understand the evolving situation.
- Avoid protest areas unless you are participating and know your rights.
- Establish check-in procedures with family or friends to ensure safe communication.
- Keep emergency contacts accessible and mobile devices charged.
The Road Ahead for Bangladesh
As the situation in Bangladesh continues to evolve, the focus remains on establishing a stable and secure environment for all citizens. The reinstatement of police forces marks a crucial step, yet the path forward hinges on the new government’s ability to address public concerns, rebuild trust, and foster a sustainable dialogue to restore democratic integrity.
Due to the tense situation in Bangladesh, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled to India. After which the protestors entered his official residence and looted the belongings, who ran away with whatever they got their hands on. A similarity was observed with the events of
According to the report of the Bangladeshi news channel “News 24”, millions of people broke the curfew and came to the streets of the capital Dhaka in the “Long March to Dhaka” of the student movement against discrimination in Bangladesh. After which Sheikh Hasina came out of her official residence “Ganobhaban” and the general crowd entered it and occupied it.
Videos aired on local TV channels and social media showed large numbers of protesters entering Sheikh Hasina’s official residence in Dhaka and looting. In the videos, some protesters were seen carrying chairs and couches from the official residence.
According to the report, someone picked up a duck from Sheikh Hasina’s official residence and made it walk, while someone caught a fish and took it with them, while someone caught a pigeon and started flying it as a message of peace. Some people were also seen swimming in the pond.
After the protest started against the quota system in Bangladesh, a movement of civil disobedience was adopted and a total of 300 people died in violent incidents. Finally, Prime Minister Hasina Wajid resigned and fled to India and the army took over the power.
It should be noted that due to the harsh and vindictive attitude of the Bangladesh government, the student movement called for nationwide civil disobedience. The students associated with the student movement said that the government is breaking the promise. Riots broke out in several cities, killing another 97 people, bringing the total to 300.
Earlier there were reports that the Prime Minister along with her sisters had moved to a safe place from Ganabhaban (Prime Minister’s official residence), Hasina wanted to record the speech but could not get a chance to do so.
Bangladesh Army Chief’s address to the nation
After this new political development, the army chief of Bangladesh announced the formation of an interim government in an address to the nation and said that Hasina Wajid has been dismissed.
He said that the army has taken over the control of the government while all the decisions of Bangladesh will be taken by the army. He said that I assure the people that the demands will be fulfilled, Bangladesh will be run by a mixed government, we will bring back peace in the country.
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The time has come for the final protest
It should be noted that celebrations have started in some places in Bangladesh and Asif Mehmood, one of the main leaders of the civil disobedience campaign in Bangladesh, appealed to the supporters to march on Dhaka. He said that the time for the last protest has come.
Sheikh Hasina Wajid left abroad in a military helicopter
According to the foreign news agency “Reuters”, Sheikh Hasina Wajid has left abroad in a military helicopter, while thousands of protesters entered the Prime Minister’s House.
Sheikh Hasina has probably left for India, Shaukat Pracha
In this regard, Shaukat Paracha of ‘Aaj News’ said that Sheikh Hasina has probably left for India and it is not clear whether Bangladesh will come under martial law or not.
He said that it is not clear whether Sheikh Hasina will form the government in exile or will try to rule from India. He further said that if Sheikh Hasina resigns before leaving the country, there can be a smooth transition.
Appeal to the armed forces not to face the crowd of ordinary students
Earlier, in view of the current situation in the country, former army chiefs and army officers appealed to the armed forces of the country not to face the crowd of ordinary students.
Former army officers organized a press conference in Dhaka on Sunday afternoon to give suggestions on how to resolve the crisis in the country’s current situation.
In a written statement, former Army Chief Iqbal Karim Bhuyan said that ‘it is necessary to immediately bring the armed forces back to the army camp and prepare them to deal with any emergency.’
The public has been asked to support the students and be part of the movement against the government. In this regard, the option of civil disobedience is being adopted.
“I request you to take the initiative to resolve this crisis through dialogue,” he said. The patriotic armed forces should not face the mob of students.’
At least 13 policemen were killed
At least 13 police officers have been killed in an attack by protesters on a police station in Sirajganj, Bangladesh.
Rajshahi Range Additional DID Vijay Basak initially told BBC Bangla that 11 policemen were killed in the attack on Inayatpur police station in Sirajganj.