Dhaka, August 7, 2024 — The resignation of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has plunged Bangladesh into chaos, with widespread violence, arson, looting, and attacks on minority communities casting a shadow over the recent student-led Movement. The absence of a functioning government has exacerbated the situation, raising concerns about the safety of citizens and the preservation of state assets.

Chief of Army Staff General Waqar-uz-Zaman addressed the nation on Monday, appealing for public cooperation to maintain law and order. He announced the formation of an interim government and urged patience and support from the populace. President Md. Sahabuddin also emphasized the urgent need for an interim government and the dissolution of the 12th National Parliament, as demanded by the students.

Despite these announcements, the country's police force remains largely inactive. The Police Subordinate Staff Association declared an indefinite nationwide strike on August 6, citing the relentless attacks on police stations and the inability to perform their duties effectively. The strike follows the resignation of senior police officials, leaving the country vulnerable to criminal activities.

In this power vacuum, there is no effective force to counter the rampant violence and destruction. Reports of targeted attacks on homes, businesses, and places of worship of minority communities have alarmed citizens. The vandalism and arson of significant state buildings, including the Prime Minister's Office, Ganobhaban, and the police headquarters, have further underscored the lawlessness.

Public figures and organizations have voiced their concerns and called for immediate action. A parent in Dhaka's Gulshan area expressed to the voice7 news the need for safety and cooperation with the army, suggesting the mobilization of trained personnel from Ansar and BNCC to work with civilians in maintaining order. A woman entrepreneur from Dhaka emphasized to voice7 news that the necessity of a secure environment for all citizens.

The Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dhaka (MCCI), has also issued a statement highlighting the detrimental impact of the current situation on trade and investment. The MCCI warned that prolonged instability could severely disrupt the country's economy and impede job creation. They urged law enforcement agencies to resume their duties to restore normalcy.

Minority communities, often the most vulnerable in political conflicts, have faced severe attacks. Immediate measures are required to protect their homes, businesses, and places of worship. The armed forces have provided contact numbers for reporting attacks, but proactive guarding is essential to prevent such incidents.

The President, as the chief guardian of the state, and the army, under the leadership of General Waqar-uz-Zaman, must take decisive action to protect citizens. While students have taken on roles such as traffic control and cleaning the National Parliament building, institutional measures are necessary to safeguard lives and property.

The current crisis demands a coordinated effort from all sectors of society. The establishment of an interim government and the restoration of law and order are critical to ensuring the stability and security of Bangladesh.Ansar and BNCC need to work with students and local people for security and safety of common people and stability of the country.

 

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