In an unexpected turn of events, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yielded to the protest and submitted her resignation on August 5, 2024. She has reportedly arrived in India, where Ms. Hasina and her family sought refuge during a previous military coup in the country. However, this time it was not a coup, and protesters breached the Prime Minister’s official residence in Dhaka following news of her departure from the country.
Despite the Bangladesh government’s complete ban on the internet in an attempt to quell the protest, students protesting against the government’s proposed quota under the banner Students Against Discrimination initiated a ‘Long March to Dhaka’. Since the protest began in July, as many as 300 people have lost their lives, with at least 94 fatalities in Sunday’s intense clashes. Ms. Hasina’s exit poses a threat of further instability in the nation bordering India, which is already grappling with a series of crises ranging from high unemployment and corruption to climate change.
Shortly after the beleaguered leader was seen on television boarding a military helicopter with her sister, the country’s military chief, Gen. Waker-uz-Zaman, announced his intention to consult the President on establishing an interim government.
Mamata urges all to maintain peace in Bengal, avoid provocation
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of West Bengal urged the residents of the State to uphold peace and refrain from any acts of provocation. She chose not to comment on the situation in Bangladesh, stating that it is a matter for the Ministry of External Affairs to address. “I urge all citizens of West Bengal to preserve peace and avoid any form of provocation,” Ms. Banerjee expressed to reporters at the West Bengal Assembly. “We will comply with whatever decision the Centre makes regarding this matter,” she added.
Grameenphone reinstates its mobile network in Bangladesh
Grameenphone, a telecommunications company in Bangladesh, has announced the restoration of its 3G and 4G networks, enabling individuals to utilize mobile internet services throughout the nation, as per Reuters.
Bangladesh PM lands in Hindon near Delhi, likely to travel to London, says source.