Protests Escalate in Dhaka

DHAKA, Bangladesh — A wave of anti-government protests erupted across Bangladesh on Sunday, resulting in nearly 100 fatalities and hundreds of injuries. Demonstrators are demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has been accused of "sabotage" in response to the unrest. In an effort to control the situation, the military imposed an indefinite curfew in Dhaka and other major cities, while mobile internet access was restricted. The protests, initially sparked by students opposing a government job quota system, have escalated into a broader movement against Hasina's administration, which has been in power for over 15 years. The ruling Awami League party claims that the protests have been co-opted by the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party and the banned Jamaat-e-Islami party. Clashes between protesters and police have resulted in significant violence, including attacks on public hospitals and vehicles. As the situation deteriorated, the Supreme Court ruled to reduce the veterans' quota for government jobs, further inflaming tensions. Prime Minister Hasina has vowed to investigate the violence and expressed willingness to engage with protesters. However, the call for a mass march on Dhaka has intensified the unrest, with protest leaders declaring their determination to continue until Hasina steps down. With the death toll from the protests now nearing 300, fears of further violence loom as security forces patrol the streets and enforce curfews. The army has urged compliance with curfew regulations, emphasizing its commitment to uphold the law amid the escalating crisis.