The streets of Dhaka erupted in jubilation following the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, with protesters celebrating the end of her reign after weeks of deadly demonstrations. However, the celebrations quickly devolved into chaos and violence as protesters turned their anger towards symbols of the former government.
A wave of vandalism swept through the city, with protesters targeting iconic landmarks such as the statue of Sheikh Mujib-ur-Rahman, the founding father of Bangladesh. They stormed the Jatiya Sangsad, the country’s parliament, and Ganabhaban, the residence of the former Prime Minister. The situation spiraled out of control, with protesters engaging in widespread looting. Social media footage captured scenes of individuals stealing personal belongings, including sarees, raw fish, and even a Dior suitcase, from the former Prime Minister’s residence. The violence extended to the parliament building, with protesters seen creating disturbances and smoking inside the chamber.
Images and videos shared online showcased the severity of the situation, with protesters seen relaxing in Sheikh Hasina’s bedroom and even swimming in her office. The scenes of chaos and disregard for the former Prime Minister’s property shocked the nation.
Amidst the escalating violence, Bangladesh’s anti-discrimination movement coordinators appealed for peace and urged students to ensure that no one takes advantage of the situation for personal gain. They emphasized the importance of maintaining peaceful protests until their desired reforms are achieved.
Earlier in the day, Army Chief General Waqar-uz-Zaman announced Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and the formation of an interim government. He appealed for an end to the violence, promising justice for all citizens. The situation in Bangladesh remains precarious, with over 300 deaths reported during the recent protests. The unrest was fueled by public anger over the controversial quota system, which reserved 30% of government jobs for relatives of veterans who fought in Bangladesh’s 1971 War of Independence. The future of the country remains uncertain, with concerns about stability and the ability of the interim government to restore order.
