Dhaka, August 4— The Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University Hospital (BSMMU), the premier medical institution in Bangladesh, was targeted during the non-cooperation movement demanding the government's resignation. The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon, resulting in significant vandalism and the burning of several buses.
The day's events began with a large protest in the Shahbagh area, where demonstrators gathered from the morning as part of an all-out non-cooperation movement. The protest, led by students and supported by people from various walks of life, effectively paralyzed traffic in and around Shahbagh. The demonstrators raised slogans calling for the government's downfall.
Tensions escalated when a group of individuals from Chawkbazar in Old Dhaka, reportedly equipped with sticks, joined the scene. They were soon accompanied by leaders and activists from the Awami League and Chhatra League. A confrontation ensued between these groups and the protesters, leading to chaos.
The situation deteriorated further when members of the Awami League and Chhatra League reportedly entered the BSMMU premises. During the melee, several vehicles outside the hospital were set on fire, and the hospital itself suffered damage due to vandalism and arson.
Health Minister Samant Lal Sen condemned the attack on the hospital, stating, "An attack on the hospital is not desirable. Everyone should refrain from doing this." The incident has sparked widespread concern, as BSMMU is a critical healthcare facility and educational institution.
The non-cooperation movement, spearheaded by the anti-discrimination student movement, continues to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her cabinet. The protest at Shahbagh is part of a broader national unrest following calls for political reform and accountability.
Authorities are on high alert as the situation remains volatile, with the potential for further unrest. The government has yet to respond to the latest escalation, and the public awaits further developments.
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