Bangladesh Grapples with Nationwide Strike and Deadly Clashes Over 174 Died

Dhaka, Bangladesh – The latest figures on fatalities from the Bangladesh protests suggest that at least 174 people have died across the country. Here are some key points about the latest situation:

– The death toll could be much higher due to a communication blackout .
– More than 100 people died in the violence, with over 50 people killed on July 20 alone .
– At least 103 people died in clashes over the allocation of civil service jobs.
– Thousands of people have been injured, and hospitals were filled to capacity.

A nationwide strike called by the opposition party, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has turned violent, resulting in the deaths of at least five people and injuring dozens more. The strike, which began on Wednesday, has brought the country to a standstill, with transportation services, businesses, and educational institutions shut down.

The BNP, led by Khaleda Zia, called the strike to protest the government’s handling of the economy, corruption, and the recent price hike of essential commodities. The party has also demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government, accusing it of authoritarian rule.

Clashes between opposition supporters and law enforcement agencies have been reported in several parts of the country, including the capital city Dhaka. Police have used tear gas, rubber bullets, and batons to disperse protesters, who have retaliated with rocks and bricks.

At least five people have died in the violence, including two opposition supporters who were shot dead by police in the southwestern city of Khulna. Three others died in separate incidents in Dhaka and the northern city of Bogra.

Dozens of people have been injured, including several journalists and police officers. Over 100 opposition supporters have been arrested, according to police sources.

The government has accused the BNP of trying to destabilize the country and has vowed to maintain law and order. Prime Minister Hasina has called for calm and urged the opposition to engage in peaceful dialogue.

The international community has expressed concern over the violence and called for restraint from all parties. The United States and the European Union have issued statements urging the government and opposition to engage in peaceful dialogue to resolve their differences.

The situation in Bangladesh remains tense, with the opposition vowing to continue the strike until their demands are met. The government has shown no signs of backing down, and the country remains gripped by uncertainty and violence.