Bangladesh is currently facing a deadly crackdown on demonstrators as a nationwide curfew has been enforced to quash student-led protests against government job quotas. Dozens have been killed and several thousand injured, with authorities blaming protesters for violence. The government has imposed an internet blackout and soldiers are patrolling the streets, as the unrest has escalated this week due to economic insecurities.
The protests began peacefully in response to a court order to reinstate a job quota for family members of veterans, but have since grown in size and intensity. The government, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, is facing the largest challenge to its authority since her re-election earlier this year. Many citizens are frustrated with the government’s handling of economic issues and feel the prime minister came to power forcefully.
As the situation continues to escalate, opposition party leaders and activists have been arrested, and protesters are demanding accountability before entering into talks with the government. Despite these challenges, there is no official confirmation of when the curfew will be lifted. International involvement is also evident, with India facilitating the return of Indian nationals from Bangladesh and providing assistance to students in universities.
The ongoing unrest in Bangladesh has put the government under immense pressure and has raised concerns over the handling of protests and the overall political situation in the country. The violence and crackdown on protesters have drawn international attention and calls for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
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