In a dramatic turn of events, supporters of the ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina have taken to the streets of Bangladesh, calling for her return from exile in India. The demonstrations, led by the student wing of Hasina's Awami League party - the Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) - have resulted in clashes with security forces and the disruption of traffic in several parts of the country. The unrest comes a day after Hasina publicly announced her intention to return to Bangladesh, following a 2-year absence triggered by a massive uprising against her rule.
The protests in Gopalganj district saw violent clashes between BCL activists and security forces, resulting in the burning of a police vehicle. Elsewhere, protesters attempted to block roads using burning tires, and several passenger vehicles were set ablaze. A 60-year-old driver was tragically killed by smoke inhalation after his bus was set on fire in Faridpur city. The unrest also extended to the Padma bridge, where about 200 protesters temporarily blocked traffic.
Bangladeshi authorities have expressed concern over the escalating violence, with Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed warning that any attempts to destabilize the country will not be tolerated. However, a senior leader of the BCL, now in exile, has denied responsibility for the violent incidents, claiming they were carried out by unknown miscreants. The Awami League was banned shortly after Hasina fled the country and was not allowed to contest the February general election.
Hasina's absence from Bangladesh followed accusations of jailing political rivals, suppressing dissent, and overseeing widespread human rights abuses. She has always denied these charges. The United Nations estimates up to 1,400 people were killed during anti-government protests in 2024, most by gunfire from security forces. Despite the threat of a death penalty, Hasina has expressed her desire to return to Bangladesh this December. However, the Bangladeshi government has refused to issue her a passport and has labeled her a "terrorist." The government also asserts that it has an active extradition treaty with India and demands her handover.