Sheikh Hasina Steps Down in Bangladesh: What Led to This and What Lies Ahead?

           Prime minister reportedly flees to India after weeks of antigovernment protests.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Steps Down in Bangladesh After 15 Years Amid Nationwide Celebrations

After 15 years in power, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned from office, a move the opposition describes as the end of an “authoritarian rule.” The announcement has led to widespread celebrations across Bangladesh.

General Waker-uz-Zaman, the chief of army staff, announced on Monday that an interim government would take over immediately. He urged citizens to remain patient and trust the army to resolve the country's issues. “Please avoid violence and maintain peaceful ways,” Zaman appealed.

Hasina’s resignation followed weeks of escalating protests over government job quotas, resulting in nationwide unrest. The government's crackdown on these protests has left at least 280 people dead and thousands injured.

Reports indicate that Hasina fled to India in a military helicopter on Monday. Videos from local news outlets showed jubilant crowds storming the prime minister’s residence, chanting and celebrating as they ransacked the property.

On Sunday alone, more than 90 people were killed as clashes between security forces and demonstrators intensified. In Dhaka's Shahbagh Square, police fired rubber bullets and tear gas at large crowds of protesters. In Sirajganj, protesters attacked a police station, resulting in the deaths of at least 13 officers.

Sunday marked the deadliest day since the protests began last month.

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