Violence erupted in Bangladesh on Wednesday following an online address by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, which continued until Friday. Protesters carried out acts of vandalism, setting fire to homes of Awami League leaders. The interim government has expressed deep concern over the violence, while political parties in the country have raised alarms over the current situation.
Violence Spreads Across 24 Districts
After Sheikh Hasina’s speech, violence quickly spread across more than 24 districts of Bangladesh. Protesters targeted Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of the nation, by destroying his portraits and statues. Within three days, multiple statues of Mujibur Rahman were demolished, indicating the growing unrest and opposition in the country.
On Thursday, in Kamila court complex, Kamila City Park, Narayanganj court complex, and police superintendent’s office, bulldozers were used to destroy portraits and statues of Mujibur Rahman. This act was led by the Students Against Discrimination group, whose secretary Rashidul Haq said, “We will erase all signs of fascism.”
United Nations Expresses Concern
The United Nations Human Rights Council expressed deep concern over the ongoing violence in Bangladesh. Meenakshi Ganguly, the Asia director for Human Rights Watch, emphasized that Bangladesh should seek support from the UN for reforms and justice, and work with UN-supported mechanisms to secure a democratic future for the country.
Bangladeshi Actress Mehr Afroz Detained
On Thursday, Bangladeshi actress Mehr Afroz Shon was detained by Bangladesh’s intelligence branch for questioning. Shon has been a vocal critic of the interim government on social media. Police official Rezaul Karim Malik confirmed her detention but refrained from providing further details.
Government Calls for Peace
In a statement on Friday, the interim government of Bangladesh called for peace and urged citizens to restore law and order immediately. The government specifically condemned any attacks on properties linked to Awami League leaders and Sheikh Hasina’s family.
Awami League Leaders’ Homes Set on Fire
In various locations across Bangladesh, protesters set fire to homes of Awami League leaders. Late Thursday night, Sheikh Salim’s house in Dhaka’s Banani area was set ablaze. Additionally, homes and properties of Obaidul Quader (former Road, Transport, and Bridges Minister), Abdul Kader Mirza (President of Awami League in Companyganj), Shahadat Mirza (former Mayor of Basurhat Municipality), Shaharyar Alam (former State Minister for Foreign Affairs in Rajshahi), Abu Sayeed (Awami League leader in Shalgarhia village), and Lieutenant General (Retd.) Masood Uddin Chowdhury (former Member of Parliament) were also torched.
Bangladesh is currently facing a highly unstable political environment, with violence and unrest on the rise. The government is grappling with the situation, and the international community is closely monitoring the developments. The response from the United Nations indicates the ongoing struggle for peace and democratic stability in the country.