Bangladesh remains on edge as the country witnesses fresh waves of arson and crude bomb attacks just days ahead of a crucial verdict in prime minister Sheikh Hasina’s trial. The tense atmosphere has led to schools shifting to online classes, public transport disruptions, and heightened security measures across the capital.
Escalating tensions before Hasina’s verdict
The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) of Bangladesh is set to deliver its verdict on November 17, in cases that accuse Sheikh Hasina of crimes against humanity, including murder, during last year’s deadly protests that claimed hundreds of lives.
Hasina’s Awami League, which remains banned from political activities, has called for a nationwide lockdown in protest against the trial. The unrest marks the most significant flare-up of violence since the former leader was ousted from power on August 5, 2024, following widespread protests that left over 800 people dead and more than 14,000 injured.
Violence grips Dhaka and other cities
In the last few days, a series of explosions and arson incidents have been reported in Dhaka, Munshiganj, Tangail, and Gopalganj, Hasina’s hometown.
According to The Daily Star, one of the first explosions took place in front of the Grameen Bank headquarters, which is currently run by the country’s chief adviser and Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus.
Subsequent crude bomb blasts were reported at nearly 17 locations, including near St Joseph School and College, followed by buses being set ablaze in Shahjadpur and Merul Badda areas. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported so far.
Security tightened across Bangladesh
Authorities have deployed army troops, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), and police in riot gear across sensitive zones, particularly around the ICT complex in Dhaka. Additional restrictions have been imposed on public gatherings near government institutions.
Dhaka’s streets remained quieter than usual on Thursday, with several commuters choosing to stay home amid fear of further violence. Passenger numbers on city buses have dropped sharply as the Awami League’s call for a lockdown began to take effect.
In an official statement, Dhaka Police confirmed the arrest of 44 Awami League members this week for alleged involvement in violent incidents and violation of public order.
The road ahead for Sheikh Hasina
The verdict in Sheikh Hasina’s trial is expected to have far-reaching political implications, especially with national elections due next year.
Hasina, who has been living in India since her ouster last year, has accused Muhammad Yunus and his interim administration of orchestrating a campaign against her. Her recent interviews with Indian media reportedly angered Yunus and heightened tensions between the two camps.
According to a United Nations report published in February, nearly 1,400 people may have died in the 2024 clashes, far higher than official government estimates.
Conclusion
With security forces on high alert and political divisions deepening, Bangladesh faces an uncertain week ahead. The ICT’s verdict on November 17 could either further inflame tensions or pave the way for a fragile calm, depending on how both sides react. For now, the nation watches closely as Dhaka braces for what could be another pivotal moment in its turbulent political history.