Bangladesh Army’s Refusal to Quell Protests Forced Sheikh Hasina to Flee: Reports

In a stunning turn of events, Bangladesh’s longest-serving Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country on Monday. The sudden departure came amid deadly protests and a loss of military support, according to multiple sources familiar with the situation.

The night before Hasina’s exit, Army Chief Gen. Waker-Uz-Zaman reportedly informed her that troops would not enforce a curfew or open fire on civilians. This decision came as demonstrations against Hasina’s government, which began in July, had intensified, with at least 100 people killed in clashes on Sunday.

As protesters defied a nationwide curfew on Monday, Hasina realized her grip on power had slipped. She and her sister flew to India around lunchtime, where she met Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.

India, a long-time ally of Hasina, now faces diplomatic challenges regarding her temporary stay.

The unrest in Bangladesh stems from various factors, including accusations of election irregularities and discontent over government policies, though as the situation evolves, analysts suspect foreign involvement in a conspiracy to overthrow the Hasina govt.

The situation remains fluid as Bangladesh enters a new political era. The international community is watching closely, aware of the country’s strategic importance in South Asia.