Sheikh Hasina Flees Bangladesh Amid Escalating Protests And Army Ultimatum

In a dramatic turn of events, Sheikh Hasina, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, has resigned and fled Dhaka following a violent wave of protests and an ultimatum from the Bangladesh Army. The decision came after escalating unrest and mounting pressure from demonstrators demanding her resignation. Reports confirm that Hasina departed from her official residence, Ganabhaban, in a military helicopter accompanied by her sister, Sheikh Rehana, and is believed to be heading to India for safety.

The unrest in Bangladesh traces back to last month when intense protests over a contentious quota system for government jobs resulted in significant violence. The ‘Students Against Discrimination’ group spearheaded the demonstrations, which initially targeted the quota system that reserves government positions for the families of veterans from Bangladesh’s 1971 war of independence. The protests, which had already claimed over 150 lives and injured thousands, saw a resurgence after the Supreme Court’s decision to abolish most quotas on July 21.

Despite the court ruling, protests continued as demonstrators sought further concessions, including a public apology from Hasina, the restoration of internet services, and the reopening of educational institutions. The movement soon broadened to call for Hasina’s resignation, with protesters initiating a nationwide non-cooperation campaign. The situation worsened over the weekend, escalating into a broader campaign against Hasina’s government.

The Bangladesh Army’s 45-minute ultimatum for Hasina to resign heightened tensions. Amidst the chaotic environment, the Prime Minister’s resignation was met with a mix of relief and continued frustration from both protesters and her critics. The unrest has highlighted accusations against Hasina’s administration for alleged excessive use of force against protesters. The government had previously blamed opposition groups and the Islamic party Jamaat-e-Islami for the violence, but Hasina recently labeled the perpetrators as terrorists intent on destabilizing the nation.

As the protests persist and the country grapples with the aftermath of Hasina’s resignation, the future of Bangladesh’s political landscape remains uncertain. The resignation marks a significant moment in the nation’s recent history of civil unrest and political upheaval.