On Thursday, the Bangladeshi government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajid announced a nationwide ban on Jamaat-e-Islami, its student wing Islami Chhatra Shibir, and other related groups, labeling them as “militant and terrorist” organizations. This decision follows weeks of violent protests that have resulted in over 200 deaths and thousands of injuries.

The violence erupted during student protests over a quota system for government jobs, which the government attributes to Jamaat-e-Islami and its affiliates. According to an official circular from the Ministry of Home Affairs, the ban was implemented under anti-terrorism laws and is effective immediately.

Read more: New Clashes Erupt in Bangladesh During Student Protests

Since the unrest began on July 15, at least 211 people have died, and more than 10,000 have been arrested. The government’s handling of the protests has faced criticism as the situation escalated into widespread violence.

Jamaat-e-Islami’s leader, Shafiqur Rahman, has condemned the ban, calling it unconstitutional and denying any role in the recent violence.

Rahman accused the government of orchestrating massacres to suppress a student-led movement, asserting that professionals and citizens are protesting against what he terms as government-perpetrated genocide.

The protests, initially triggered by discontent over the job quota system, have expanded into a larger movement against the ruling administration, marked by clashes with law enforcement.

The government’s actions against Jamaat-e-Islami and its affiliates aim to restore order but raise concerns about political freedoms and legal integrity in Bangladesh.