Four Dead Amid Nationwide Shutdown and Student-Police Clashes in Bangladesh
Dhaka, July 18, 2024 – A nationwide ‘complete shutdown’ in Bangladesh has escalated into deadly violence, with four people killed in clashes between students and police in Dhaka’s Uttara, Badda, and Savar areas. The shutdown, organized by quota reform activists, has paralyzed the country and led to significant disruptions across major cities.
Nationwide Disruptions
The day-long shutdown, aimed at protesting violent crackdowns on students and demanding reforms to government job quotas, has severely impacted daily life. Major highways including the Dhaka-Chattogram, Dhaka-Barishal, and Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar routes have been blocked by protesters, causing widespread disruption to intercity travel and public services.
Fatal Clashes in Dhaka
In Dhaka’s Uttara area, two individuals have been killed amid ongoing clashes between Northern University students and police. The victims were brought to Bangladesh Medical College, Uttara Branch, where they were declared dead. Nurse Supervisor Shahida Begum reported that the emergency section is overwhelmed with injured individuals awaiting treatment.
In Badda, clashes between police and private university students resulted in the death of Dulal Matbor, a Hiace driver who was caught in the crossfire. Matbor was rushed to Farazy Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Deputy General Manager Rubel Hossain indicated that between 200-300 people have been treated at the hospital due to the violence.
Savar Incident
In Savar, a student from the Military Institute of Science and Technology was killed after climbing onto a police APC van. The student was shot with pellets by the police and later died at Enam Medical College and Hospital. Duty Manager Yousuf Ali confirmed the student’s death and described the incident as part of the escalating tensions during the protests.
Escalating Tensions
The ongoing protests reflect rising tensions over quota reforms and government responses to student activism. The severe disruptions and casualties highlight the intensity of the current unrest and its impact on public safety and infrastructure across the nation.
