Scroll.in “The story of Bangladesh under Sheikh Hasina may serve as a cautionary tale for other authoritarian leaders in the region: no matter how entrenched a regime may seem, the power of the people, driven by a thirst for justice, equity, and dignity, remains an unstoppable force. The turmoil in Bangladesh is a clarion call for change, signalling that the era of authoritarian rule must and will come to an end.” These words from Scroll contributor Ashok Swain’s July 22 column on the Bangladesh protests seem prophetic now. Hasina, the world’s longest-serving woman head of state and Bangladesh's longest-serving prime minister, fled her country on Monday amid massive anti-government protests that have killed hundreds. The ingredients in this powder keg reflect India’s own social faultlines: reservations, unemployment, widening inequality and a drift towards authoritarianism. Are we heading down a similar path, or can lessons still be learnt? Find the answers in our coverage of the uprising, and become a Scroll Member today so that we can keep bringing you the truth about what’s happening in our neighbourhood. The story of Bangladesh under Sheikh Hasina is as a cautionary tale for other autocratic leaders in the region. scroll.in A security-centric approach that favours the unpopular Awami League could foster anti-India sentiment. scroll.in There has been a failure to comprehend the genuine grievances of Bangladeshis amid conspiracy theories of China or America undermining security interests. scroll.in Both countries have seen long-standing frustration with the economy and the perceived indifference of the government. Student-led protests merely l... scroll.in Despite 200 deaths, the fear that had stifled criticism of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has dissipated. There is now one demand: she must resign. scroll.in Scroll spoke to Ali Riaz, an expert on Bangladeshi politics, to understand the impact of the student protests. scroll.in Supporters of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League and security forces have cracked down on protestors. scroll.in See this post on web |