Over 100 killed in Bangladesh crisis post Hasina's ouster
Dhaka: More than 100 people have lost their lives in Bangladesh amidst widespread violence following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation and departure from the country on Monday. The situation in Dhaka was relatively calm on Tuesday morning after a turbulent day and tense night.
Buses and other public transport resumed services, shops began reopening, and government offices saw vehicles returning. Despite the chaos, some battery-operated rickshaws were back on the roads, according to reports.
Following news of Hasina's departure, hundreds of people stormed her residence, Sudha Sadan, ransacking and looting the premises, highlighting the intensity of anti-government protests. Similar attacks were reported on residences and offices belonging to ministers, MPs, and leaders of the Awami League government in Dhaka and other areas.
Local media reported that 119 people died in the violence, which included attacks on Hindu temples and widespread looting across the capital and beyond. Clashes on Monday, primarily sparked by demands from student protesters, resulted in at least 109 deaths nationwide, according to reports.
Earlier figures had indicated 98 deaths by Sunday noon, with an additional 16 fatalities reported overnight, bringing the total to 114 by Sunday. “With this, the total death toll stood at 440 in 21 days from July 16 to yesterday,” the report said.
Dhaka Medical College Hospital received 37 bodies between 11 am and 8 pm on Monday, alongside treating 500 injured individuals, including those with gunshot wounds.
A national newspaper of the country reported that clashes in Savar and Dhamrai claimed at least 18 lives, while ten people were killed in Uttara when unidentified gunmen fired on protesters. Fatalities were also reported from various other districts, including Habiganj, Jessore, Khulna, Barisal, Lakshmipur, Kushtia, Satkhira, and Sreepur of Gazipur.
Late on Monday night, President Mohammed Shahabuddin urged political parties to restore law and order, directing the armed forces to protect lives, properties, and state assets. Schools and colleges across the country reopened on Tuesday after a prolonged closure due to the ongoing unrest, although attendance in Dhaka was reported to be low.
"The institution is open, and some girls have come, but attendance is low. Attendance will increase in a couple of days," Md Rahamot Ullah, principal of Kisholoy Girls' School and College in the Mohammadpur area of the capital, was quoted as saying by the paper.
Tensions had escalated since June due to government decisions, including the announcement of a quota system, sparking protests demanding Hasina's resignation. Sunday's clashes erupted following earlier violent confrontations between police and predominantly student protesters, which had resulted in over 200 deaths.
Agencies