Internet shut nationwide bandh announced why is bangladesh experiencing deadly protests

Internet shut nationwide bandh announced why is bangladesh experiencing deadly protests

Mobile internet in Bangladesh was temporarily suspended on Thursday after the country experienced deadly protests that killed at least 10 and injured more than 500 people this week.

The protestors announced a nationwide bandh saying that ‘only hospitals and emergency services will remain operational.’

Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina addressed the nation on Wednesday and assured justice for those killed in the protests.

She also said that ‘the students who are demanding quota reform would not be disappointed by the Supreme Court's decision.

Why are students protesting?

The students in Bangladesh are protesting against quotas in government jobs and rising unemployment rates in the country.

Nearly 32 million young people out of work or education in Bangladesh with a population of 170 million. The students have called for striking down of a 30% reservation quota for the families of freedom fighters.

Protesters are calling for the abolition of a system they claim is discriminatory and favors supporters of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League party, the leaders of the independence movement. They advocate replacing it with a merit-based system.

What PM SheikhHasina said?

The prime minister announced judicial enquiry ‘to ensure fair and just trial in the recent unwanted incidents including killings.’

‘On whose instigation the conflict started, who for what purpose pushed the country to an anarchic situation, will be investigated and found out,’ she said.

‘But it is a matter of regret that some quarters took advantage of the movement to fulfil their unacceptable ambitions through terrorist activities’, she added.

Indian nationals urged to stay indoors amid escalating tensions

Amid escalating tensions in the south-Asian country, Indian high commission issued advisory for Indian nationals in the country to stay indoors. It also issued emergency contact numbers.

‘In view of the ongoing situation in Bangladesh, the Indian community members and the Indian students residing in Bangladesh are advised to avoid travel and minimize their movement outside their living premises. In case of any urgency or need for assistance, please reach out to the High Commission and our Assistant High Commissions at the following 24-Hour Emergency numbers,’ it said in a statement.

'Rubber bullets hit several students in eyes'

As the authority cracked down on the protestors, at least 10 agitators have lost their lives in this week.

On Thursday, riot police once more used tear gas and rubber bullets to scatter protesters, while the government ordered mobile internet networks shut down in a bid to suppress the demonstrations.

Talking about two students who died on Thursday, nurse Merina Parvin said, ‘They were brought from the clashes.’

‘At the Brac University medical centre at least 25 students were treated for rubber bullet wounds and tear gas-related injuries,’ a university official told AFP.

‘Rubber bullets hit several students in their eyes,’ the official added.