DHAKA, Bangladesh (AFP) — In response to escalating violence and the deaths of six students, the Bangladeshi government has ordered the indefinite closure of all schools and universities nationwide. This decision follows weeks of intensifying protests against civil service hiring policies, which culminated in clashes involving paramilitary forces on Tuesday.
The Education Department issued closure orders for high schools, universities, and Islamic seminaries to ensure student safety. Spokesman MA Kyle emphasized the necessity of the closures amid the ongoing unrest. The order was extended to include the university where many of the protesters were enrolled.
Violence peaked on Tuesday, with pro-government students and protesters engaging in violent confrontations using bricks and bamboo sticks. Police responded with tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the crowds.
At least six fatalities were reported during the day-long protests held across various cities despite calls from Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the Supreme Court for students to resume classes. Chittagong hospital director Mohammed Taslim Uddin confirmed three deaths and numerous injuries from bullet wounds. Dhaka saw two more deaths as rival student groups clashed, resulting in significant disruptions across the city. Police Inspector Batu Mia reported one fatality from a head injury and at least 60 injuries.
In the northern city of Rangpur, police chief Mohammad Moniruzzaman reported another student fatality amid clashes. Details on the cause of death were not provided, but it was confirmed that police used rubber bullets and tear gas against protesters. Superintendent Yunus Ali of Rangpur Medical College and Hospital confirmed that the student was dead upon arrival.
Student journalist Tauhidul Haq Siam from Rokeya University recounted that police fired shotguns at protesters, resulting in injuries and at least one fatality by gunfire, though this could not be independently verified.
As night fell, protesters continued to block major highways, prompting authorities to deploy Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) forces to five major cities, including Dhaka and Chittagong.
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged the Bangladesh government to protect protesters from violence and uphold their right to peaceful demonstration. His spokesman, Stephane Dujarric, reiterated the importance of safeguarding fundamental human rights.
Tuesday’s violence followed a day of clashes in Dhaka between anti-quota protesters and the ruling Awami League’s student wing, which left over 400 people injured.
