Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year tenure as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh came to an abrupt end on Monday as she fled the country following over a month of escalating and deadly protests. The military has since announced its intention to form an interim government to restore order.
Backdrop of the Crisis
Since early July, Bangladesh has been gripped by nationwide protests, initially sparked by opposition to preferential job quotas. These demonstrations quickly evolved into a larger movement demanding Hasina’s resignation, culminating in brutal unrest over the weekend that resulted in nearly 100 deaths. Unable to quell the growing unrest, Hasina eventually fled the country on Monday evening.
Interim Government in the Works
In the wake of Hasina’s departure, Bangladesh’s army chief and President Mohammed Shahabuddin are working together to establish an interim government. President Shahabuddin announced the dissolution of parliament and the imminent formation of this interim administration, aimed at stabilizing the volatile situation. Additionally, he ordered the release of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who has been a longstanding political rival of Hasina.
Global Reactions and Security Concerns
The ongoing crisis has drawn significant international attention. The World Bank is currently assessing the impact of these events on its loan programs in Bangladesh. Meanwhile, the United States has urged all parties to maintain calm and work towards a democratic and inclusive process for establishing the interim government.
In neighboring India, authorities are on high alert. The West Bengal Police have cautioned against sharing provocative videos related to the situation in Bangladesh, and West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose has assured that measures are in place to secure the borders and prevent unauthorized entry into India.
Where is Sheikh Hasina Now?
Following her resignation, Sheikh Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening. She is reported to have held discussions with India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval at the Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad, focusing on the current crisis in Bangladesh and her future plans.
As Bangladesh navigates this turbulent period, all eyes are on the interim government and how it will address the demands of the protesters while restoring order in the country.
