New Delhi: Monday was a turbulent day in Bangladesh’s politics. Violence erupted across the country after a special court sentenced former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death in absentia. Clashes, gunfire, bomb blasts, and vandalism erupted in several areas, leaving security forces struggling to control the situation. At least two people have been confirmed dead and dozens injured.
Tension in Dhaka
The situation appeared most explosive in Dhaka. Rioters attempted to set fire to the historic residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Bangladesh’s founding father and Sheikh Hasina’s father. Security forces resorted to baton charges and tear gas to quell the protesters. According to officials, several sound grenades were also used to control the protesters.
Heavy police presence was deployed around Dhaka’s Dhanmondi and Mirpur Road areas. Several markets were closed and traffic was halted. Tension remained high throughout the night with frequent clashes between police and protesters.
Celebrations after Hasina’s sentencing turned into conflict
In Barisal city, some people began distributing sweets after Sheikh Hasina was sentenced to death. Meanwhile, clashes broke out between pro-Hasina and anti-Hasina groups, resulting in one person being killed and several others injured in the exchange of fire. The injured were admitted to Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital. Meanwhile, in Dhaka’s Palabi area, unidentified assailants killed a local Jubo Dal leader, further escalating tensions.
Explosions across the country
Three policemen were injured in a crude bomb blast at the Kotalipara police station in Gopalganj district on Sunday night. According to preliminary police information, the attack targeted security personnel on night patrol. The situation has become more volatile due to a nationwide strike called by the Awami League. The government has put central and local security agencies on alert.
Court decision
A special court has convicted Sheikh Hasina of crimes against humanity for her alleged crackdown on student-led protests last year. Hasina was sentenced in absentia, as she is currently abroad. Before the verdict was announced, protesters marched with bulldozers toward Dhanmondi-32, where Mujibur Rahman’s house is located. However, security forces stopped them.
The government issued strict instructions to the media
In light of the violence and the tense atmosphere, Bangladesh’s National Cyber Security Agency has issued a warning to the media not to broadcast any statements or messages from Sheikh Hasina, who has been declared a convicted fugitive. The agency claims that such messages could further escalate social tensions, violence, and chaos. The agency said that some media organizations are broadcasting videos and messages of Hasina, which could pose a “threat to national security.”
