The student protests in Bangladesh, initially sparked by demands for quota reforms, have evolved into a powerful, all-encompassing movement with a singular demand: the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her cabinet. This transformation is emblematic of a broader discontentment with the government and a call for systemic change.
The Context
The protests began as a response to perceived injustices in the government quota system, which reserved a significant portion of public sector jobs for certain groups, leaving many qualified candidates at a disadvantage. Students, frustrated by limited job prospects and a lack of transparency, took to the streets demanding a fairer system. However, the government's heavy-handed response, including police brutality and violent crackdowns, intensified the protests and broadened their scope.
The movement rapidly gained traction and expanded beyond the student community. People from all walks of life—teachers, lawyers, rickshaw pullers, parents, and even children—joined the protests. This inclusivity transformed the movement into a national uprising against systemic injustice and government oppression. The catalyst for this unity was the shared outrage over the government's violent repression and the deaths of protestors.
Nahid Islam, a key organizer, emphasized that the movement's primary demand is now the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her entire cabinet.
This shift from specific quota reforms to a call for the ousting of the current government highlights the deep-seated dissatisfaction with the status quo. Nahid's statements align with the movement's goals of ensuring safety, justice, and preventing autocracy.
The protests have spread across the country, from Dhaka to Chattogram, Narayanganj, and beyond. In Dhaka, the Central Shaheed Minar became a focal point, with thousands of protestors braving the rain to voice their demands. Demonstrators from various neighborhoods marched towards the Shaheed Minar, their numbers swelling as more people joined along the way. The unity and resolve of the protestors were evident as they chanted slogans, graffitied the streets, and tore down government propaganda.
The movement's strength lies in its diverse support base. From students to parents and workers, everyone has a stake in the protests. Parents, in particular, have shown remarkable solidarity, providing food and water to the protestors and even joining the marches.
Protestors have also engaged in symbolic actions, such as blindfolding statues and removing pro-government slogans, to underscore their demands for justice and a terror-free society. These actions reflect a deep desire for change and a rejection of the government's oppressive tactics.
Government Response and Public Sentiment
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's offer to sit with the students at the Gono Bhaban was perceived as too little, too late. The movement's leaders rejected the call for dialogue, insisting that only her resignation and accountability for the government's actions would suffice. The stance exemplifies the movement's unwavering commitment to demanding justice and systemic reform.
Prime Minister Hasina has also ordered the release of all students detained during the quota reform protests.
In a recent meeting with leaders of the Professional Coordination Council at the Gono Bhaban, the Prime Minister called for dialogue with the protesting students, stating that the doors of the Gono Bhaban are open for them. She expressed a desire to listen to the students and resolve the conflict through peaceful means, emphasizing that she does not want any further conflict.
Public sentiment is overwhelmingly in favor of the protestors. People from various professions and social strata have joined the movement, reflecting widespread discontent. The government's attempts to quell the protests through violence have only strengthened the resolve of the demonstrators and garnered more public support.
Lack of Transparency and Government Tactics
A lack of transparency and deliberate efforts by the authorities to conceal the truth about the protests has emerged. The government has suppressed freedom of speech and expression, disregarded constitutionally protected rights, and politicized state institutions. This contrasts sharply with the ruling party's self-portrayal as the guarantor of the country's economic stability.
The government's narrative blames the opposition for the violence without proper investigation and highlights the widespread rejection of the Awami League's version of events by the populace. The government's heavy-handed response has left the country reeling with shock, anger, and fear. Young people, particularly university students, feel a profound lack of hope and acute concerns for their safety.
The government's only way to improve the situation is to admit its mistakes and seek reconciliation with the student protesters. However, the government's defensive posture and attempts to control the narrative through media and social media censorship have further alienated the population.
Amidst the ongoing turmoil, there have been reports of government officials, MPs, and prominent business leaders fleeing the country.
Recently, it was reported that 17 individuals, including several high-ranking officials, used the VIP lounge at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport to leave the country.
Notably, among these individuals were influential figures who had previously assured Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of their unwavering support. Their departure indicates a significant erosion of confidence within the ruling elite.
On Saturday morning, several prominent figures, including ministers, MPs, and business leaders, were seen leaving the country. Among them was Nazrul Islam Mazumder, chairman of the Bangladesh Association of Banks, who had previously pledged to stand by the Prime Minister in any situation. Despite his assurances, he left the country on a BS 217 flight. Other notable figures who fled include Finance Minister Abul Hasan Mahmud Ali, former Textile and Jute Minister Golam Dastagir Gazi, Local Government Minister Tajul Islam, Whip Noor-E-Alam Chowdhury, Agriculture Minister Md. Abdur Razzaque, and several others. Their departure underscores the gravity of the crisis and the loss of confidence among the ruling class.
The Case of Abu Sayed
The tragic case of Abu Sayed, a student at Begum Rokeya University in Rangpur, who was killed during the quota reform protests, has further fueled public outrage. Despite video evidence showing police involvement in his death, the authorities have been slow to release the investigation reports. Two separate investigation committees were formed, one by the police and another by the university administration. The police investigation led to the suspension of two officers based on preliminary findings, yet the full report remains undisclosed due to the lead medical examiner being on leave. This delay has created a perception of a cover-up and has added to the distrust towards the government.
Chhatra League's Response and Tactics
The Awami League's student wing, Chhatra League, has actively responded to the protests on social media. Their posts reflect the party's attempt to undermine the legitimacy of the movement and dissuade people from joining.
One of their posts translates to "Spread the word, bury the one demand." This slogan aims to discredit the singular demand for Sheikh Hasina's resignation.
Another post states, "There is no ordinary citizen now. It’s Awami League vs. anti-Awami League. From today, no ordinary person will take to the streets for the one demand. Those who will are anti-Awami League, meaning BNP, Jamaat, Shibir. We urge conscious citizens not to respond to their calls without understanding, and not to be used as a tool by any political party. Take care of yourself and your family."
This tactic aims to paint the movement as politically motivated by opposition parties rather than a genuine grassroots uprising. By labeling the protestors as anti-Awami League, Chhatra League attempts to delegitimize the movement and discourage participation.
Another post reads, "The quota protestors are like headless chickens now. Rest assured, no one will come forward to lead them publicly, even if they pull the strings secretly. To them, Sheikh Hasina's resignation is more important than justice for the killings. They don’t want jobs; they want power. They gave nine demands and called for justice. But they didn’t wait even one day; they demanded Sheikh Hasina's resignation, which has been Jamaat BNP's demand for a long time. Now, ordinary students and people will not spare you. After the one demand, many are turning from red to black. So, now our calculation is different."
This narrative aims to portray the protestors as politically manipulated and insincere in their demands, further trying to dissuade public sympathy and support.
Analysis by David Bergman
David Bergman, a UK-based journalist and political expert on Bangladesh issues, emphasizes that the protests are unlikely to stop due to the deep emotional response to the government's law enforcement authorities killing at least 200 people, most of whom were students and ordinary citizens. This brutality has scarred the nation and fueled widespread anger.
Bergman points out that the government's response has been crude and dismissive, blaming the opposition and labeling them as terrorists while avoiding responsibility for the violence. This narrative has lost credibility among the populace, who no longer believe the governing Awami League party. The government's control over media has also weakened, as people witness the reality of the situation through firsthand accounts and videos.
Bergman suggests that the government has limited options to maintain its hold on power. It could perform a drastic U-turn by accepting responsibility, apologizing, and inviting a United Nations investigation. However, this is unlikely given Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's entrenched stance and continuous blaming of the opposition.
Repression is another option, but Bangladesh is not equipped for the sustained and severe repression needed to quell the protests permanently. The loyalty of law enforcement authorities to the Awami League has its limits, and the use of the army would be politically risky and potentially temporary.
Bergman notes the crucial role of India, the Awami League's principal benefactor. While India can offer support, it is also pragmatic and would not want to be associated with a failing regime. The West, particularly the liberal democratic international community, must pressure India to influence the Awami League towards a peaceful transition of power. Bergman underscores that the West's past support of Sheikh Hasina, despite her autocratic tendencies, has contributed to the current crisis. The international community must now advocate for a transition to avoid widespread violence and ensure stability.
The Way Forward
The student protests in Bangladesh have transcended their initial demands for quota reform, evolving into a nationwide movement against government oppression and systemic injustice. With a unified demand for the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her cabinet, the movement has galvanized support from all sections of society.
The protestors are united in their fight for justice and change. As the movement continues to gain momentum, it represents a pivotal moment in Bangladesh's history, with the potential to reshape the nation's political landscape.
