Dhaka: The interim government of Bangladesh announced on Thursday the ban of the Bangladesh Chhatra League, the student wing of the Awami League led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina . This decision comes in the wake of violent protests that contributed to Hasina’s ouster in August.
The government cited the Chhatra League’s involvement in violent attacks on student demonstrators during the protests that escalated after Hasina’s administration came under intense scrutiny. Following her departure, which was marked by a chaotic evacuation amid growing unrest, the mob ransacked her official residence, Ganabhaban. Reports indicate that Hasina was given only 45 minutes to flee the country to ensure her safety.
An official statement from the government declared that the Chhatra League has been banned under the Anti-Terrorism Act, with immediate effect. The notice highlighted the group’s history of allegations, including “murders, persecution, torture, and other activities that threaten public security.”
The protests against Hasina’s government began peacefully in July but turned violent as Chhatra League members reportedly attacked student protestors on university campuses. Efforts by pro-government factions to suppress the demonstrations only fueled public anger, leading to a rapid deterioration of the political landscape and Hasina’s eventual removal.
Officials estimate that over 700 people lost their lives during the clashes, primarily in confrontations between police and anti-Hasina protesters. Amidst this turmoil, a Bangladeshi court issued an arrest warrant for Hasina, who sought refuge in India on the day she was overthrown.
In the aftermath of Hasina’s departure, dozens of her allies have been detained, facing accusations related to the violent police crackdown on protestors. Former ministers and senior members of the Awami League have been arrested, while Hasina’s appointees have been removed from key positions, including the courts and the central bank.
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