Bangladesh unrest: Issues shoot-on-sight order amid rising student protest death toll rises

PTC News Desk: In an effort to put an end to the increasing civil unrest brought on by student protests, soldiers patrolled the streets of Bangladesh, and the police were given the authority to “shoot-on-sight” anyone who disobeyed curfew.

These are the top ten updates for this significant story.

1. This week’s violence has claimed at least 133 lives, presenting a significant challenge to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s autocratic government after 15 years in power. Ms. Hasina was scheduled to depart for a planned diplomatic tour on Sunday but canceled her plans due to the protests.

2. With the death toll rising and police unable to control the violent demonstrations, the Bangladesh government imposed a national curfew on Friday and deployed the military. The curfew was briefly lifted on Saturday afternoon to allow people to run essential errands, but otherwise, residents have been ordered to stay home, and all gatherings and demonstrations are banned.

3. Additionally, a nationwide internet shutdown was imposed on Thursday and remains in effect, severely disrupting communication within and outside of Bangladesh. Government websites are offline, and major newspapers, including the Dhaka Tribune and Daily Star, have been unable to update their social media platforms.

4.  The Supreme Court is scheduled to meet later today to issue a verdict on whether to abolish the contentious job quotas.

Also Read: Bangladesh unrest intensifies: Protesters set jail ablaze, free ‘hundreds’ of prisoners