Former Awami League MP Accuses Government Over Bangladesh Violence
In a sharp rebuke, former Awami League MP Bahauddin Nasim has accused the government of having “blood on its hands” for the deadly violence that has rocked Bangladesh, leaving at least 10 dead and hundreds injured.
Key Details of the Allegations
Speaking to reporters at his Dhaka residence on Saturday, Nasim, who is also the party’s vice-president, held the government directly responsible for the deaths of innocent people. He stated the administration had failed in its duty to protect lives and property and accused it of using excessive force against protesters.
Trigger and Escalation of Unrest
The widespread unrest was initially triggered by the government’s announcement of a new tax on mobile phone calls and internet data. Although the tax was later withdrawn, the violence has persisted, marking the worst political turmoil the country has seen in years.
Nasim demanded the government take responsibility for the crisis, ensure justice for the victims, and initiate a dialogue with the opposition to find a resolution.
Government and Opposition Standoff
The government has flatly denied any responsibility, instead blaming the opposition for instigating the violence. The opposition has rejected these allegations, counter-accusing the government of using the unrest as a pretext to suppress dissent.
National Stability and International Concern
The prolonged violence has sparked serious concerns about the stability of Bangladesh, a key Muslim-majority nation with a history of political strife. The international community, including the United States and the European Union, has called for calm.
The US urged respect for the right to peaceful protest and investigations into protester deaths, while the EU emphasized the need for a political solution to end the crisis.
