In the aftermath of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and her departure to India, Bangladesh has witnessed severe violence resulting in the deaths of 29 Awami League leaders and their family members. The bodies were discovered on Tuesday, August 6, across various regions impacted by the unrest.
In Satkhira, violence erupted leading to the deaths of at least 10 individuals. Reports indicate that several homes and businesses owned by Awami League leaders were targeted, resulting in widespread vandalism and looting.
Cumilla experienced intense mob violence, with 11 people killed. Among the victims, six died when attackers set fire to a three-story residence belonging to former councillor Mohammad Shah Alam. In a separate incident, four people were killed when a mob torched the residence of MP Shafiqul Islam Shimul. The deceased were found throughout the house, including in rooms, balconies, and the roof.
Bangladesh’s Social Media Ban and Regional Security Measures
The Bangladesh government has imposed a ban on major social media platforms, including Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp, and YouTube, starting August 2. This measure aims to curb the spread of information and coordination among protesters amid the escalating violence.
In neighboring India, security has been heightened in the northeastern states of Meghalaya and Manipur. The Manipur government has instructed the Deputy Commissioners of Pherzawl and Jiribam districts to enforce a night curfew and enhance security measures due to the potential influx of people fleeing the violence in Bangladesh. Meghalaya’s Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong announced a night curfew from 6 pm to 6 am within a 200-meter radius from the zero line, with the Border Security Force (BSF) maintaining strict vigilance along the India-Bangladesh border. Additional security personnel are on standby if needed.
Diplomatic and Political Reactions
In response to the turmoil, India has repatriated non-essential staff and their families from its embassy and consulates in Bangladesh. Despite the evacuation, Indian diplomatic missions, including the High Commission in Dhaka and its assistant high commissions in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna, and Sylhet, remain operational. The missions continue to provide services and have set up helplines for Indian citizens in Bangladesh.
Domestically, Indian Congress leader Salman Khurshid has warned of the potential for similar protests in India, reflecting on past movements like the CAA-NRC protests led by women in Shaheen Bagh, Delhi. Khurshid suggested that the current situation in Bangladesh could inspire similar unrest in India.
In response, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra criticized Khurshid’s comments, accusing the Congress party of attempting to incite chaos and undermine national stability through provocative statements. Patra argued that the Congress’s frustration over electoral losses is leading them to spread disorder.
