Bangladesh – The city of Dhaka was left in shock on Wednesday night as violent protests led to the demolition of the iconic Bangabandhu Museum and the arson of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina 2019s residence, Sudhasadan. The unrest stemmed from the controversial broadcast of a speech by Sheikh Hasina, who has been residing in India since her government 2019s fall six months ago.
Protests Spark Over Hasina 2019s Broadcast
Tensions flared after the Awami League announced that Sheikh Hasina would address a virtual event via the banned student organization Chhatra League 2019s Facebook page at 9 PM on Wednesday. The speech, delivered from Delhi, India, reignited public anger, particularly among students and activists opposing discrimination and political corruption.
Bangabandhu Museum Demolished
By 8 PM, a large crowd had gathered at Road No. 32 in Dhanmondi, Dhaka, where the historic residence of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman 2014 the founding father of Bangladesh 2014 is located. The demonstration quickly turned violent as protesters stormed the gates of the three-story museum. Armed with sticks, axes, and iron rods, they vandalized the property, breaking windows, wooden frames, and other parts of the structure.At around 11 PM, cranes and excavators arrived, and the protesters began demolishing the house. By 12:30 AM, one side of the building had been reduced to rubble. Two more bulldozers joined at 1 AM to continue the destruction. Protesters vowed to remain until the building was completely demolished.
Sheikh Hasina 2019 s Residence Set on Fire
Simultaneously, Sheikh Hasina 2019s residence, Sudhasadan, located at No. 5 Dhanmondi, was set ablaze. The fire continued to rage until 1 AM, with little intervention from law enforcement. Eyewitnesses reported a minimal police presence, with only two police vans at the scene. The Bangladesh Army briefly arrived around midnight but left without taking significant action.
Nationwide Vandalism and Arson
The violence extended beyond Dhaka. In Khulna, Jessore, Kushtia, Barisal, Sylhet, Rangpur, Bhola, and Pirojpur, properties linked to Sheikh Hasina 2019s relatives and Awami League leaders were vandalized and set on fire. Sculptures, murals, and nameplates honoring Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman were removed or destroyed in several universities.
Slogans and Public Sentiment
Protesters chanted slogans such as 201 Naraye Takbir, Allahu Akbar 201d and 2019s soldiers, unite and fight,201 reflecting deep-seated political divisions. While some protesters participated in the demolition, others gathered to watch a documentary on the July Uprising projected near the demolition site.
Law Enforcement 2019s Limited Response
The lack of a robust law enforcement response has raised concerns about the government 2019s ability to maintain order. Protesters openly stated their intention to demolish the entire structure of Bangabandhu 2019s house, and the demolition continued until at least 7 AM on Thursday.
Uncertain Future for Bangladesh
The destruction of these national landmarks has left the country in disbelief. The Bangabandhu Museum was more than just a house; it symbolized Bangladesh 2019s struggle for independence. Its demolition marks a dramatic shift in the political landscape. Sheikh Hasina nor the Awami League has issued an official statement regarding the events. As the nation grapples with the aftermath, questions about Bangladesh 2019s political stability and future remain unanswered. The events of Wednesday night will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on Bangladesh 2019s history, as the nation faces an uncertain path forward amid deep political and social divisions.
