Bangladesh Student Protests Escalate, Demand PM's Resignation

Student protests in Bangladesh over government job quotas have evolved into a call for nationwide civil disobedience. Protesters demand Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation and justice for over 200 people killed. The protests have gained public support and have led to violent clashes and international demands for accountability.

The student protests in Bangladesh have taken a dramatic turn, with demonstrators now calling for a nationwide civil disobedience campaign until Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government steps down, reports Al Jazeera. Protesters demand justice for more than 200 people killed in last month's rallies over government job quotas.

The group, Students Against Discrimination, which organized the protests, rejected an offer for talks with Hasina. Nahid Islam, the group's leader, insisted, "She must resign and face trial." Reporting from Dhaka, Al Jazeera's Tanvir Chowdhury noted that the student movement has evolved into a public movement, attracting support from various societal sectors.

Clashes erupted between protesters and police in the Gazipur and Comilla districts near the capital. Prime Minister Hasina has invited protest leaders to talk, stating, "I want no conflict," but has also appointed senior officials to negotiate with them. Earlier peaceful protests turned violent after police crackdowns and attacks by pro-government student groups.

The government's response included imposing a curfew, deploying troops, and an 11-day mobile internet shutdown. Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan claimed security forces acted with restraint but were forced to open fire to defend government facilities. The violent crackdown has resulted in at least 200 deaths, including 32 children, sparking international condemnation.

UN Human Rights Chief Volker Turk has called for transparency about the crackdown and details of those killed, injured, or detained. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has demanded an international investigation into the use of excessive force against protesters.

(With inputs from agencies.)