DHAKA, July 16, 2024 (V7N) – Questions are being raised about the accuracy of claims from the US Department of State regarding the deaths of two students during ongoing protests in Bangladesh. Despite no reports from local media or law enforcement agencies confirming any fatalities, the US Department of State cited otherwise, prompting concerns about the influence of social media rumors.
 
"We are aware of and are monitoring reports of widespread student protests in Dhaka and around Bangladesh that have killed two and attacked and injured hundreds," said US Department of State Spokesperson Mathew Miller at a regular media briefing in Washington on Monday, July 15.
 
When asked for specifics, the US Embassy in Dhaka, through Acting Spokesperson Leonard Hill, clarified that their statement was based on "monitoring reports" which included mentions of injuries and deaths. Hill emphasized their commitment to obtaining accurate information and encouraged journalists to uncover the truth.
 
Spokesperson Miller underscored the importance of "freedom of expression and peaceful assembly" in a democracy, condemning any violence against peaceful protesters and expressing sympathy for those affected.
 
In response, Foreign Minister and Awami League Joint General Secretary Dr. Hasan Mahmud asserted that the government will not tolerate attempts to destabilize the country. He indicated that the anti-quota movement is being exploited to incite anti-state and anti-government sentiments among students.
 
"The government will not allow this. This government is a very strong government. No political evil force will be allowed to destabilize the country by playing with the sentiments of young students," Dr. Hasan stated at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday.
 
He noted that anti-state slogans were chanted during the quota movement on Sunday night, which he deemed contrary to the spirit of the Liberation War of 1971. Dr. Hasan accused political forces like BNP and Jamaat of infiltrating the movement to destabilize the country.

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