Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Resigns on Army Chief’s Orders Amidst Violent Protests

Dhaka, Bangladesh – Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned from her position following an ultimatum from the country’s army chief, who gave her 45 minutes to step down. In a dramatic turn of events, Hasina was not granted the opportunity to deliver a final speech before being relocated to a secure location.
According to both foreign and Bangladeshi media, nationwide violent protests have erupted, turning into celebratory scenes for some. Following consultations with opposition and other political parties, the army chief is expected to address the nation for the first time in the country’s history. Indian media reports suggest that Sheikh Hasina has been airlifted to India via military helicopter. Meanwhile, enraged protesters have stormed the Prime Minister’s residence.
Background of the Resignation
The resignation comes in the wake of violent clashes triggered by a student-led civil disobedience movement. Over 100 people have been killed and dozens injured in the recent unrest. Prime Minister Hasina declared a curfew nationwide and labeled the students as terrorists and saboteurs. The students had announced a march towards Dhaka, leading to fierce confrontations with police and security forces, who used tear gas and grenades to disperse the thousands of protesters demanding Hasina’s resignation.
In response to the unrest, the Bangladeshi government has shut down major social media platforms, including Facebook, Messenger, WhatsApp, and Instagram, and imposed restrictions on 4G mobile and broadband internet services.
Reports indicate that over 300 people have died in the violent events stemming from protests against the quota system since July. The students have declared a civil disobedience movement, demanding the resignation of Sheikh Hasina. The Prime Minister labeled the protesters as criminal elements rather than students and called for harsh measures against them. In the past week alone, approximately 11,000 individuals have been arrested.
UN human rights chief Volker Turk has expressed astonishment at the situation, urging both political leaders and security forces to uphold their responsibilities to protect the right to life, peaceful assembly, and freedom of expression.
India has advised its citizens to exercise extreme caution and restrict their movements in Bangladesh, recommending that they avoid travel to the country until further notice.