Official announcements by the Bangladeshi government or major news outlets

Bangladesh Imposes Social Media Ban Amid Protests; 72 Killed

Aug 4, 2024, 08:48 AM

The Bangladeshi government, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has imposed a nationwide ban on several social media platforms including Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, and TikTok. This move comes in response to escalating protests that began with student-led demonstrations against a controversial quota system for public-sector jobs. The protests have since broadened into a mass movement against Hasina's government, with demands for her resignation. The unrest has resulted in significant violence, with reports indicating that over 200 people have been killed in the clashes, including at least 32 children. The government has also imposed a curfew and shut down mobile internet services to curb the unrest. Despite these measures, the protests have continued to intensify, with student leaders rejecting calls for dialogue and announcing a nationwide non-cooperation movement. The situation remains volatile, with ongoing clashes between protesters, police, and ruling party supporters. Reports indicate that 72 people, including 13 policemen, have been killed, with a total of 75 people dead.