Dhaka, July 26, 2024 — A photo of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inspecting damage at a train station, allegedly affected by recent protests, is sparking controversy on social media. Critics accuse the Prime Minister of shedding “crocodile tears,” implying that her displayed sympathy is insincere.
The protests, which resulted in around 150 deaths, were sparked by opposition to a government proposal that would allocate 30% of government jobs to the relatives of war heroes. The unrest led to a nationwide state of emergency and a significant intervention by the judiciary, which subsequently reduced the employment quota to 7%.
The public outcry centers on the perception that Prime Minister Hasina’s visible display of emotion is a superficial response to the crisis, with critics suggesting that her actions do not reflect genuine concern for the lives lost during the protests.
The controversy highlights the ongoing political and social tensions in Bangladesh, as the government faces scrutiny over its handling of the employment quota issue and the broader impact of the protests on the country.
