Kathmandu [Nepal], November 11 – Violent protests have erupted across Bangladesh as supporters of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina demand her return from exile in India prompting police to use tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse demonstrators.
Clashes broke out in Gopalganj district between security forces and activists of the Bangladesh Chhatra League, the student wing of Hasina’s banned Awami League. Protesters also set fire to a police vehicle.
The demonstrations mark the first major organised show of strength by Hasina’s supporters since she was ousted in August 2024 following a mass uprising and fled to India.
Protests intensified after reports emerged that Hasina had applied for a passport through Bangladesh’s High Commission in New Delhi, expressing a desire to return home in December.
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed warned that the government would not allow any attempt to destabilise the country’s peace and security through alleged conspiracies from India.
A senior Chhatra League leader in exile denied the group’s involvement in the violence, blaming unidentified groups.
Last year, a special tribunal sentenced Hasina to death in absentia after convicting her of crimes against humanity. She has rejected the verdict as politically motivated and biased.
Her possible return has added to Bangladesh’s political and security tensions.
