In a dramatic escalation of tensions, the Sheikh Hasina-led government in Bangladesh announced a nationwide curfew late Friday, deploying military forces to restore order following days of violent clashes over government job allocations. The conflict, which has claimed at least 105 lives and injured over 1,500, has plunged the country into turmoil.
Obaidul Quader, the general secretary of the ruling Awami League party, revealed the curfew was implemented to assist the civilian administration in maintaining control. This decisive action follows intense confrontations between protesters and security forces. On Friday, police responded to demonstrations with live ammunition and tear gas, while authorities in the capital, Dhaka, imposed a ban on all public gatherings.
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The unrest began with protests led predominantly by students who objected to the existing quota system for public sector jobs. This system reserves positions for various groups, including the relatives of war heroes from the 1971 independence struggle. Critics argue that the system unfairly benefits political allies of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and does not adhere to merit-based principles.
Prime Minister Hasina has staunchly defended the quota system, emphasizing that it honors the contributions of veterans regardless of political affiliations. Despite her stance, the protests intensified, culminating in significant violence on Thursday. Demonstrators set fire to the state broadcaster's office, leading to severe disruptions. In response, the authorities suspended metro rail and railway services in Dhaka and imposed a mobile internet blackout in several regions.
The government's crackdown also affected media operations. Many Bangladeshi newspapers and news websites experienced technical difficulties, with some unable to update or access social media. News television channels and the state broadcaster, BTV, went off the air, citing technical issues, while entertainment channels continued to broadcast normally.
Adding to the chaos, several high-profile websites, including those of the central bank, the prime minister's office, and the police, were reportedly hacked by a group identifying itself as ?THE R3SISTANC3.? The cyberattacks further complicated efforts to disseminate information during this critical period.
