Bangladesh: A nation in turmoil and transformation

What’s going on in Bangladesh? What’s next for the country? Should India be worried? Here are your answers.

Fruit vendors sit next to a wall mural as they wait for customers inside the Dhaka University in Dhaka on August 12, days after a student-led uprising that ended the 15-year rule of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. | Photo Credit: Indranil Mukherjee

The abrupt end of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s long-standing rule marks a significant turning point in the nation’s politics. What began as student protests demanding reforms to a controversial quota system in government jobs quickly escalated into a broader movement challenging Hasina’s authoritarian governance, ultimately forcing her to flee the country.

Historically, student movements in Bangladesh have played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s political narrative, from the language movement (Bhasha Andolon) of 1952 to the liberation struggle of 1971. The current protests remind this legacy, with students again emerging as key actors in the fight for democratic rights and accountability.

Hasina’s ouster raises critical questions for regional stability, particularly for India, which has maintained a close relationship with her government. The implications of her exit extend beyond domestic politics, requiring India to reassess its diplomatic approach in South Asia.

As Bangladesh struggles with the aftermath of this upheaval, issues of governance, accountability, and national identity come to the forefront. In this backdrop, Frontline brings you a package that delves into the complexities of Bangladesh’s current situation, offering a nuanced understanding of the forces at play and the potential implications for its future.