In Bangladesh, tensions have escalated as the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) publicly criticized the interim government for the first time. Over 1,500 individuals have been apprehended in a nationwide crackdown, known as "Operation Devil Hunt," initiated on February 8. This operation targets groups allegedly associated with ousted premier Sheikh Hasina. The recent protests were triggered by reports of Hasina's potential appearance in a live broadcast from exile in India.
On Friday, members of the Students Against Discrimination protest group faced attacks in Gazipur. This group is credited with spearheading the uprising against Hasina. Protesters also stormed the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum, a site connected to Hasina's family, on February 6, causing damage. Clashes have erupted between anti-Hasina protesters and supporters of the Awami League party. Demonstrators have even used excavators to smash buildings linked to Hasina's family.
In response to these events, Human Rights Watch expressed concerns, stating that the police had "returned to abusive practices." The crackdown has faced criticism for its severity and for targeting opposition groups. BNP secretary-general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir met with interim leader Mohammed Yunus to address these concerns. Alamgir urged the government to prioritize the safety of innocent civilians.
"We cautioned the government to protect innocent civilians." – Alamgir
Yunus, in his meeting with Alamgir, emphasized the importance of distinguishing their actions from those of the previous regime. He highlighted the sacrifices made to end injustices across various sectors.
"The sacrifices we made were aimed at bringing an end to injustices across all sectors," – Yunus
"If we engage in the same kind of actions as the fallen regime, there will be no difference between them and us," – Yunus
The interim leader also warned against any form of retaliation following Hasina's ouster. Meanwhile, Hasina has defied an arrest warrant issued for her alleged crimes against humanity.
Alamgir further criticized the government's handling of the situation, pointing out that the violence occurred in plain view of law enforcement.
"It all happened in front of law enforcement agencies, so the government cannot avoid its responsibility," – Alamgir
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