A fresh wave of violence swept through many cities in Bangladesh, including the capital Dhaka, on Sunday, resulting in over 97 deaths and hundreds of injuries as student protesters clashed with police and ruling party activists. Police fired tear gas and used stun grenades to disperse tens of thousands of protesters calling for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign.
The government has declared an indefinite nationwide curfew starting at 6 pm on Sunday, marking the first time such a step has been taken during the current protests, which began last month. It has also called for a three-day holiday. The Central government has “strongly advised” Indian nationals against travelling to Bangladesh until further notice, and Indian authorities in Bangladesh have asked citizens to “remain alert” in view of the volatile situation.
The protests have become a major challenge for Hasina, who returned to power for a fourth consecutive term in January, ruling for over 15 years. Hasina’s government appears to be on the brink of collapse as protesters now push for one demand — her resignation.
