Bangladesh is burning!!

In June 2024, student protests began in Bangladesh. Initially peaceful, the demonstrations soon turned violent, leading to a military curfew. Schools were temporarily closed, and mobile internet services were cut off. The unrest has resulted in over 150 deaths and more than 1,000 injuries. Protesters are calling Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina a dictator, and tensions have been heightened by issues related to reservation policies. The situation remains critical.

Bangladesh gained independence in 1971 after a war with Pakistan. Previously known as East Pakistan, it broke away due to various atrocities committed by Pakistan, leading to a freedom struggle. For more detailed information on Bangladesh’s independence, you can read my blog linked here https://www.globetact.com/geopolitical/from-conflict-to-independence-the-1971-war-and-the-birth-of-bangladesh/.

The history of Bangladesh is crucial to understanding the current unrest. After gaining independence, the government reserved quotas in government services for freedom fighters and their family who sacrificed or risked their lives for the nation’s freedom.

Today’s problems have deep historical roots. The reservation policies intended to honor these freedom fighters are now a source of contention, contributing to the ongoing protests and violence. Understanding this historical context helps explain the current situation in Bangladesh.

Take a look of Quota in the government services in Bangladesh:

From the table above, we see that out of the total 56% quota, a significant portion is allocated to the children and grandchildren of freedom fighters. Many young people in Bangladesh believe this is unfair. They argue it’s unconstitutional for the descendants of freedom fighters, who often come from well-off families, to receive government jobs over ordinary citizens.

This issue is exacerbated by rising inflation and increasing unemployment, which are lowering the purchasing power of the average person. The government’s lack of action on these economic challenges has added fuel to the fire, making the situation even direr.

The youth in Bangladesh are growing increasingly aggressive, feeling that the quota system is deeply unjust.

Some media have claimed that the protests are funded by Western interests to create unrest in the country, but this remains unproven. While citizens have the right to protest against perceived injustices, it is crucial that these protests remain peaceful. Violence only leads to chaos and destruction, with innocent common people bearing the brunt of the turmoil.

Impact on Neighboring Countries

The protests in Bangladesh could have significant implications for neighboring India. Relations between India and Bangladesh have been strong under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. If her government collapses due to the unrest, a new government might shift policies, possibly leaning towards China for loans and development aid.

Additionally, unrest in Bangladesh could lead to a refugee crisis similar to what was seen with Myanmar. Refugees seeking shelter in India would place a substantial burden on the country, exacerbating existing challenges.

Consequences of Unrest and External Exploitation

Unrest in Bangladesh leads to chaos and significant civil destruction, worsening the country’s already fragile economic situation. Here’s a detailed look at the consequences and how external superpowers might exploit the situation:

Civil Destruction: Violent protests and clashes result in damage to infrastructure, businesses, and homes. Public services are disrupted, and normal life comes to a standstill, causing immense hardship for ordinary citizens.

Economic Deterioration: The instability causes investors to lose confidence, leading to reduced foreign investment and economic stagnation. Inflation rises, unemployment increases, and the overall economic health of the country declines.

Exploitation by Superpowers: During times of national crisis, other superpowers may step in to exploit the situation for their own benefit:

1. Political Influence: They might support specific factions or groups to gain political leverage.
2. Economic Opportunities: Superpowers may offer loans or aid with stringent conditions that benefit their own economic interests.
3. Strategic Gains: They might use the instability to establish military or economic footholds in the region, influencing local politics and economics.