India has issued an advisory for its citizens residing in Bangladesh to remain vigilant and maintain contact with the Indian Assistant High Commission in Sylhet. This follows a deadly outbreak of violence that resulted in the deaths of 91 people and injuries to dozens more. The Indian Assistant High Commission released a statement on X (formerly Twitter) urging all Indian nationals, including students, to stay alert and contact the commission in emergencies at +88-01313076402.
Background of the clashes
The renewed violence is rooted in the contentious government jobs quota system in Bangladesh, which reserves 30% of government jobs for relatives of veterans who fought in the 1971 War of Independence. The protests, which reignited today, have included demands for the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
14 policemen killed
Fourteen policemen were among the dead, as reported by AFP. Over 200 people have died in recent violent clashes between police and protesters, primarily students.
The latest violence erupted this morning during a non-cooperation protest demanding the government's resignation. The clashes involved supporters of the ruling Awami League, Chhatra League, and Jubo League activists, according to PTI.
Indefinite curfew imposed
The Bangladesh Home Ministry has imposed an indefinite nationwide curfew starting at 6 PM Sunday. Prime Minister Hasina condemned the protesters, labeling them terrorists rather than students, and called for firm action against them.
PM convenes meeting
Prime Minister Hasina convened a meeting of the National Committee on Security Affairs at Ganabhaban. She urged citizens to act decisively against those she termed as terrorists disrupting the nation under the guise of protests. The meeting was attended by top military, police, and agency officials.
Four Awami League supporters killed
In Rangpur, four Awami League supporters were killed, and over 100 people were injured.
One person each was killed in Bogra and Magura. A Chhatra Dal leader was among the deceased in Magura.
PM's resignation demanded
The Anti-Discrimination Students Movement, a key protest group, continues to demand Prime Minister Hasina's resignation and justice for those killed in the quota reform violence. The protesters have refused Ms. Hasina's offer for dialogue, solidifying their stance on her resignation.
Vehicles set ablaze
Reports from the Daily Star newspaper said that several vehicles at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) were set ablaze by unidentified individuals. Protesters carrying sticks were seen vandalizing cars, ambulances, motorcycles, and buses.
The situation in Bangladesh remains tense as the conflict over the government jobs quota system escalates. Indian nationals in the region are advised to stay connected with the Indian High Commission and exercise caution during this period of unrest.
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