In a somber update from Bangladesh, Health Adviser Nurjahan Begum has disclosed that over 1,000 individuals have been killed and more than 400 people blinded by police fire during recent protests against the Sheikh Hasina-led government. This announcement came as she visited the Central Police Hospital in Rajarbagh, Dhaka, to assess the conditions of injured police personnel and patients in the surgical department.
“So far, we have lost 1,000 lives, and more than 400 students and members of the general public have suffered severe eye injuries, with some losing sight in one or both eyes,” Nurjahan said, as reported by bdnews24.com. The violence erupted following a controversial quota system for jobs that sparked widespread student-led protests starting in mid-July.
The initial anti-discrimination movement swiftly escalated into a broader anti-government uprising, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The situation intensified, leading to violent clashes between protesters and police forces across the country.
In response to the turmoil, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled to India on August 5. She was replaced by an interim government, with 84-year-old Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus appointed as Chief Adviser, a role equivalent to that of a prime minister.
Nurjahan Begum also reported that many injured police officers had sustained head and leg injuries. She mentioned that the interim government is coordinating with the American-based Sheba Foundation to provide treatment for those who have lost their vision. The foundation will send medical professionals to Bangladesh to assist with care at several eye hospitals, including the Ispahani Islamia Eye Institute, the National Eye Science Institute and Hospital, Chattogram Eye Hospital, and facilities in Dinajpur.
The current focus is on addressing the severe eye injuries sustained during the protests, with efforts underway to ensure that affected individuals receive the necessary medical attention. The situation remains critical as Bangladesh grapples with the aftermath of the violent clashes and political upheaval.
