Published 12:26 IST, August 6th 2024
Bangladesh Unrest Claims 135 Lives in Single Day as Protestors Celebrated Sheikh Hasina's Exit
As protests intensified in Bangladesh, a total of 135 lives were lost in the country on Monday alone; an interim government will be formed soon.
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Dhaka: After a successful military takeover in Bangladesh following Sheikh Hasina's resignation, reports indicate that at least 135 people were killed on Monday alone during the unrest.
The student-led protests in Bangladesh took an ugly turn resulting in the resignation of PM Sheikh Hasina and her fleeing from the country.
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Bangladesh Protests: Death Toll Reaches 135
Over 90 deaths occurred due to police firing during clashes between protesters and members of the Awami League. On Monday morning, the government ordered an internet shutdown in Bangladesh to prevent protesters from inciting further unrest. Demonstrators were calling for a "Long March to Dhaka."
Violence erupted when police attempted to disperse the protesters, resulting in more than 18 deaths on the outskirts of the capital in the Savar and Dhamrai regions. The police used tear gas and bullets, leading to numerous injuries. According to the Dhaka Tribune, over 50 people were injured, and multiple journalists were shot in the chaos.
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In total, at least 135 people lost their lives on Monday while the total death toll in the protests has crossed 300.
Police Station Set on Fire
The violence continued until Hasina's resignation. In the capital's Uttara, more than 10 people were killed and many injured after civilians in police uniforms opened fire on protesting students. Some shots were reportedly fired from police stations. Protesters set a police station on fire, escalating the violence.
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By Monday evening, more than 35 bodies had been brought to Dhaka Medical College for assistance. Three unidentified bodies were also admitted to Dhaka Hospital, which confirmed that over 500 people with gunshot wounds and other injuries had arrived; 75 are in severe condition.
The unrest spread beyond the city, with protesters being shot at the borders. In Sreepur and Gazipur, Border Guard Bangladesh opened fire on protesters blocking two trucks.
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Celebrations Amid Hasina's Departure
As Hasina fled Bangladesh, people took to the streets to celebrate, looting her official residence, Gonobhaban. There is speculation that she might seek political asylum in Britain, but she will stay in New Delhi until then.
In Bangladesh, Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus has been proposed to form an interim government. This announcement was made early Tuesday morning by student leaders, including Nahid Islam, Asif Mahmud, and Abu Bakar Mazumdar. President Mohammed Shahabuddin has approved the formation of the interim government.
12:26 IST, August 6th 2024