UPSC Exam Prep: Crisis in Bangladesh: Sheikh Hasina's Resignation and Its Implications for India

The Ongoing Conflict in Bangladesh

Bangladesh is currently experiencing a significant political upheaval following the resignation and departure of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The crisis erupted into violence, leading to the death of hundreds as government forces clashed with demonstrators. The protests, which initially began against job quotas, quickly evolved into a broader movement calling for Hasina's resignation.

Cause of the Protests

The root of the unrest lies in the job quota system for government positions. Demonstrations began demanding the end of the 30% job quota for families of veterans from Bangladesh's war of independence against Pakistan in 1971. The Supreme Court of Bangladesh ruled to reduce this quota to 5%, allocating the remaining positions based on merit and reserving 2% for ethnic minorities, transgender, and disabled individuals. Despite the government's acceptance of this ruling, the protests persisted, fueled by demands for accountability for the violence attributed to government forces.

Role of Sheikh Hasina in Bangladesh's Development

Sheikh Hasina has been a pivotal figure in Bangladesh's political landscape since her return to power in 2008. Under her leadership, Bangladesh transformed from one of the poorest nations into one of the fastest-growing economies in the region. The country saw substantial growth in its garment industry, which bolstered its economy and improved living standards. However, this economic success came with significant political costs, including allegations of electoral manipulation and suppression of dissent.

Economic and Political Turmoil

The pandemic and subsequent global economic downturn severely impacted Bangladesh's garment industry, leading to economic distress. Combined with the increasingly authoritarian tendencies of Hasina's government, these factors ignited widespread public discontent. The government's harsh response to student protests, including police and paramilitary intervention, exacerbated the situation, turning it into a full-scale anti-government movement.

Key Takeaways

The Root Cause of the Protest

The protests in Bangladesh were triggered by dissatisfaction with the job quota system, but they quickly morphed into a broader movement against Sheikh Hasina's government. The reduction of the quota, while accepted by the government, did not quell the protests due to the public's anger over the violent crackdowns on demonstrators.