Dhaka: At least 37 people were reported dead and numerous others injured across the country on July 20 last year, as street protests intensified despite a nationwide curfew. The government subsequently declared a two-day general holiday on July 21 and 22 in an attempt to control the student-people uprising.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the protests persisted despite the curfew, with demonstrators demanding an apology from the then Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for the casualties. The movement gained momentum following the arrest of Nahid Islam, a key coordinator of the anti-discrimination student movement, on July 19.
The Dhaka-based Bangla daily, Dainik Amader Shomoy, reported that among the 37 fatalities, 25 occurred in the capital, including two policemen. Additional deaths were documented in Mymensingh, Savar, Gazipur, and Narsingdi, although actual figures were believed to be higher. The Daily Star's editorial on July 21 highlighted that most deaths resulted from police and BGB gunfire.
The government had imposed a curfew and deployed the army nationwide at midnight on July 19 to quell the uprising, which escalated after Abu Sayeed's demise on July 16. Despite the army's presence, the curfew was briefly relaxed on July 20 to permit essential activities.
In response to the escalating unrest, the government declared a general holiday, shut down internet services, and garment industry associations announced the closure of factories from July 21. Clashes were most intense in the capital, with Jatrabari, Mirpur, and Mohammadpur becoming focal points of the movement.
Protesters in Mirpur faced police gunfire and tear gas, leading to a day-long clash that saw the Kazipara metro station set ablaze. In Jatrabari and surrounding areas, demonstrators blocked highways with trucks, prompting police to use tear gas and live bullets.
In Mohammadpur, protesters attempted to reach the local police station, leading to clashes with police. Similar unrest was reported in Siddhirganj, where a police outpost was set on fire, and in Savar, where government buildings were vandalized.
In response to the violence, all establishments, including shopping malls, were closed, and the Dhaka Metropolitan Police warned that curfew violations would lead to imprisonment and fines. Security was intensified across key locations, with RAB helicopters patrolling Dhaka's skies.
The government accused opposition parties, BNP and Jamaat, of exploiting the student movement to incite violence. Awami League's general secretary, Obaidul Quader, alleged attempts to destabilize the nation, while BNP leaders criticized the government's actions.
As the situation deteriorated, several political figures were arrested or placed on remand. Coordinators of the quota reform movement distanced themselves from violent activities, reiterating their intent to continue their demands.
On July 20, a meeting between student movement leaders and government officials was held, where demands were discussed. Despite claims of progress, some movement coordinators denied any connection with the meeting, insisting on continuing their protests.
Prominent lawyers and international entities, including the UK and EU missions in Dhaka, condemned the government's use of force and urged peaceful resolution of the crisis.