Dhaka, Aug 5 – Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina stepped down and left the country on Monday following a violent crackdown that resulted in the deaths of hundreds of people. The unrest, which initially started as protests against job quotas, grew into a widespread movement calling for her resignation.
Celebratory crowds flooded the grounds of the presidential residence, taking furniture and electronics. One individual carried a red velvet, gold-trimmed chair on his head, while another held several vases. Hasina felt disheartened that, despite her efforts, a minority group had risen against her, according to Joy. He indicated that she would not pursue a return to politics.
Earlier in the day, army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced Hasina’s resignation during a televised address, stating that an interim government would be established. He mentioned that discussions had been held with leaders of major political parties, except for Hasina’s long-standing Awami League, and that he would soon meet with President Mohammed Shahabuddin to determine the next steps.
Hasina, 76, arrived at a military airfield near Delhi, where she was met by India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, according to two Indian government officials. They did not provide further details about her stay or future plans. India, which shares deep cultural and trade ties with Bangladesh, has not issued an official statement on the events in Dhaka.
Reports suggest that Hasina would depart from Hindon for London at 1930 GMT, although Reuters could not confirm this information. The recent unrest in Bangladesh, sparked by student protests against job quotas favoring veterans’ families from the 1971 independence war, escalated into a broader movement demanding Hasina’s removal. The government’s harsh response to the protests has left around 250 people dead and thousands injured.
Once one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, Bangladesh is now grappling with slow economic growth, rising inflation, and increasing unemployment.
