Bangladesh’s army has imposed a “shoot-at-sight” curfew nationwide following days of violent clashes between student-led protesters and police. At least 105 people have been killed and thousands injured this week, according to hospital data across the country. Internet and mobile services have been blocked since Thursday, isolating Bangladesh as police crack down on demonstrations and ban public gatherings.
Police have used tear gas and stun grenades against protesters, who responded by throwing bricks and setting vehicles on fire. On Friday, the government enforced a strict national curfew and deployed the army, with a “shoot-at-sight” order granting security forces the authority to fire in extreme cases, stated Obaidul Quader, the general secretary of the ruling Awami League party.
Read more: Bangladesh Enforces Curfew, Deploys Military Amid Deadly Protests
Some TV news channels were taken off the air, and most Bangladeshi newspapers’ websites were not loading or updating. Local media reported that about 800 inmates escaped from a prison in Narsingdi after protesters stormed and set it on fire.
The protests, driven by youth anger over poor job prospects after graduation, demand an end to a quota system reserving up to 30% of government jobs for 1971 independence war veterans. Protesters argue the system favors allies of the ruling party and seek a merit-based replacement. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina defended the system, emphasizing respect for veterans regardless of political affiliation.
International rights groups have criticized security forces’ actions and the internet shutdown. The EU expressed deep concern over the violence and loss of life. Representatives from both sides met late on Friday to seek a resolution. Law Minister Anisul Huq indicated the government’s willingness to discuss the students’ demands, including quota reform, reopening student dormitories, and university officials’ resignation for failing to prevent campus violence.
In 2018, the government halted job quotas after mass protests, but the High Court reinstated them in June following petitions from veterans’ relatives. The Supreme Court suspended the ruling pending an appeal hearing set for Sunday. Ms. Hasina urged protesters to await the court’s decision.
