Dhaka: Musaddiq Ali Ibne Mohammad, a student of the Bengali Department at Dhaka University, became a prominent figure in the anti-discrimination student movement that led to the downfall of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, ending her 16-year rule. As the movement expanded into a nationwide uprising, Musaddiq’s leadership became crucial. He declined an offer of refuge from a foreign embassy, choosing instead to remain on the streets with the demonstrators.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the student-led anti-quota movement officially began on June 5, 2024. Musaddiq recounted that he sensed something significant was unfolding when students took to the streets demanding quota reform. The movement was a direct response to the government’s reinstatement of quotas, an issue that had long simmered among students. Musaddiq had been involved in previous protests, including the 2018 quota movement and demonstrations against the murder of Abrar Fahad in 2019.
In the early days of the movement, students united spontaneously against the authoritarian structures they faced, with Musaddiq and others organizing through online platforms. The movement gained momentum, leading to a human chain on June 9 and an ultimatum for government response by June 30. Despite threats from Chhatra League, the movement continued to grow, with Musaddiq playing a key role in encouraging participation.
From July 1 to 15, continuous programs were held under the banner of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement. Musaddiq described the initial period as relatively calm, despite threats from Chhatra League. However, tensions escalated on July 12 with attacks at Cumilla University, and confrontations with police became more frequent. On July 14, students submitted a memorandum to the President, and spontaneous protests erupted in response to statements by the then Prime Minister.
On July 15, violence erupted on the Dhaka University campus. Musaddiq and other students faced attacks from Chhatra League, leading to injuries and a retreat amid the chaos. Despite the violence, the movement persisted, and by July 16 and 17, students began reclaiming control of university halls from Chhatra League influences. Musaddiq detailed the challenges faced during this period, including police and Chhatra League aggression.
The movement faced a significant challenge when the network was shut down nationwide on July 18, but students found ways to continue their efforts. Musaddiq participated in protests despite the lack of communication, and by July 25, he met with the UN Human Rights Advisor in Bangladesh to discuss the ongoing violence.
Musaddiq was arrested on July 29 during a protest near the Press Club. Despite the arrest, he managed to erase sensitive information from his phone and instructed others on what to say if detained. The arrest drew attention and added pressure for their release. After being released from custody, Musaddiq continued to organize and participate in protests, including a significant demonstration on August 2, which revitalized the movement.
As the movement progressed, the focus shifted to a “one-point demand” for the resignation of Sheikh Hasina. On August 3, this demand was formally announced at a rally at Shaheed Minar. The following days saw increased student participation and confrontations with law enforcement. On August 5, as the movement reached its peak, news broke that Sheikh Hasina had fled to India. Musaddiq described the moment as one of immense joy and freedom, marking the end of oppression and the beginning of a new era for Bangladesh.