Protesters Torch Awami League Leaders’ Homes Amid Bangladesh Unrest.
The political situation in Bangladesh has reached a boiling point following an online address by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Large-scale protests erupted across the country, leading to acts of violence, arson, and destruction of public and private property. On Friday, enraged demonstrators vandalized and set fire to the homes of multiple Awami League leaders. In addition to targeting residences, protesters also destroyed images and statues of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding leader of Bangladesh, in several districts, deepening the political crisis in the country.
Houses of Awami League Leaders Set on Fire
The protests turned violent in Dhaka’s Banani area, where demonstrators torched the residence of Awami League member Sheikh Salim. Reports indicate that the fire started around 1:30 AM, but the fire brigade was unable to respond immediately, with their arrival delayed until 2:45 AM. The damage to the property was severe, with several rooms completely gutted.
Similarly, in Companyganj, Noakhali, protesters launched an attack on the residence of Awami League General Secretary and former Minister of Road Transport and Bridges, Obaidul Quader. His brother, Abdul Quader Mirza, who is also the President of Companyganj Awami League and a former mayor of Basurhat municipality, was also targeted. Protesters vandalized his two-story house, smashing windows and setting fire to a car parked outside. The scale of destruction suggests that the demonstrators were well-organized and aimed to send a strong message to the ruling party.
In Rajshahi’s Bagha Upazila, another large-scale arson attack took place at the three-story home of former State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Shahriar Alam. Witnesses reported that more than 100 protesters arrived on motorcycles, quickly spreading fuel around the premises before setting it ablaze. The fire spread rapidly, consuming significant parts of the building before emergency services arrived.
Another incident occurred in Shalgaria village, where Awami League leader Abu Sayeed’s house was attacked and burned. Locals reported hearing chants against the government as demonstrators moved from one location to another, destroying property and setting fires in their path.
Statues and Portraits of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Defaced
In addition to targeting Awami League leaders, protesters also directed their anger towards the symbolic figures of the ruling party. In Cumilla, demonstrators tore down and destroyed two images of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of Bangladesh. A leader from the local student movement, Students Against Discrimination, declared, “We will erase all symbols of fascism.”
Similar incidents were reported in Narayanganj, where BNP-backed lawyers vandalized a statue of Mujib at the court complex, along with government buildings such as the offices of the deputy commissioner and police superintendent. These acts of defacement were seen as highly provocative and have sparked further political debate.
In Narsingdi, protesters damaged a portrait of Sheikh Mujib at the District and Sessions Judge Court complex, while in Bagerhat, similar acts of destruction took place at the Muktijodha Complex, public parks, and various municipal buildings. The Mongla Upazila Parishad Complex and Mongla Children’s Park also saw acts of vandalism. Additionally, at the Barishal Press Club, demonstrators demolished a Mujib portrait, an act that has drawn widespread condemnation.
Government Pledges Strong Action Against Rioters
Reacting to the violence and destruction, the interim government issued a strong statement condemning the actions of the protesters. Government officials have vowed to take strict measures against those responsible for arson, vandalism, and acts of destruction.
“We are witnessing attempts to destabilize the country through violence and destruction. Such actions will not be tolerated, and the law enforcement agencies will take immediate action to ensure stability,” the government declared. The authorities have made it clear that any individuals or groups found instigating unrest will face severe legal consequences.
Additionally, security forces have been deployed in key areas to prevent further attacks, with police and paramilitary units patrolling high-risk zones. The government has also called for public support in identifying and reporting those responsible for the violence.
BNP Warns of Political Fallout
While the ruling party is focusing on controlling the unrest, the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has voiced concerns over the government’s handling of the situation. Senior BNP leader Ruhul Kabir Rizvi warned that if the authorities fail to contain the violence, extremist and undemocratic forces could take advantage of the crisis.
“The current situation, if not addressed immediately, could lead to the resurgence of domestic and foreign anarchist forces. This government must take responsibility for the rising instability,” Rizvi said. He further stated that the BNP is urging the government to take immediate steps to de-escalate tensions before the country plunges into further chaos.
The BNP has also criticized the government’s use of force against protesters, arguing that political dissatisfaction cannot be resolved through suppression alone. They warned that unless the ruling party listens to the demands of the people, the situation could spiral out of control, potentially damaging Bangladesh’s international reputation.
International Concerns Over Political Violence
The escalating violence has drawn concern from international organizations and foreign governments. Several human rights groups have urged the Bangladeshi authorities to ensure that citizens’ rights to peaceful protest are protected while also maintaining law and order. The United Nations has called for dialogue between the ruling Awami League and the opposition to prevent further violence and instability.
As tensions continue to rise, the coming days will be crucial in determining whether the government can successfully contain the unrest or if the political crisis will further deepen. With both sides remaining firm in their stances, a peaceful resolution still seems uncertain.
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