At least four people were killed and several others injured in violent clashes in Dhaka on Thursday (July 17, 2025), after supporters of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina clashed with police during a politically sensitive student rally.

The violence unfolded as a convoy of approximately 20 vehicles carrying student leaders of the National Citizen Party (NCP) entered the capital to commemorate an anti-government uprising, widely seen as a show of resistance to the country's current ruling establishment.

TV footage showed armed groups of pro-Hasina supporters wielding sticks, confronting law enforcement officers and setting vehicles ablaze. Eyewitnesses claimed that tensions escalated when some NCP leaders tried to march toward the Dhaka Secretariat, despite security barricades.

How the Violence Unfolded

The convoy led by student activists was part of an organized programme to mark the anniversary of a student-led protest movement, but the demonstration quickly turned into chaos when pro-Hasina supporters intercepted the procession near Shahbagh Square.

According to local news reports, police tried to disperse the crowd with tear gas and rubber bullets, but the armed supporters retaliated by throwing stones and attacking law enforcement with batons and sticks.

“We were not expecting violence. Our convoy was peaceful. But suddenly we were attacked by outsiders waving Hasina’s posters,” said Rahman Sajid, an NCP student leader who suffered a head injury.

By evening, at least 20 vehicles had been damaged, including police vans, public buses, and several private cars. Shops in the area shut down, and metro services were briefly suspended in central Dhaka for public safety.

Police and Government Response

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police confirmed the death of four individuals, including two who died on the spot due to head injuries and another two declared dead at Dhaka Medical College Hospital.

“We have not yet confirmed the identity of all the deceased. An investigation is ongoing. So far, 43 people have been detained,” said a senior police official at the site of the unrest.

The Bangladesh Home Ministry has directed all regional police units to remain on high alert, especially in educational institutions and public squares, fearing the clashes may trigger wider protests.

A press release from the Ministry read:
“Any attempt to destabilize the peace and democratic process will be met with strong action. Those responsible for today’s violence will face legal consequences.”

Political Tensions Worsen After Hasina's Ouster

The violence marks a new chapter in Bangladesh’s deteriorating political landscape. Sheikh Hasina, the country’s longest-serving leader until her controversial ouster earlier this year, remains a polarising figure.

Despite no longer holding office, her support base remains deeply embedded in grassroots organisations, especially student unions, youth wings of the Awami League, and civil service institutions.

Many analysts believe Thursday’s clash was triggered by loyalists trying to reclaim public space and assert Hasina’s lingering political influence, despite her formal departure from governance.

International Concerns Mount

The United Nations and international rights groups have expressed concern over the rising political violence in Bangladesh. Human Rights Watch issued a statement calling on the Bangladesh government to uphold democratic rights, ensure accountability, and prevent politically motivated crackdowns.

India, the United States, and the European Union—key stakeholders in Bangladesh’s democratic framework—are reportedly monitoring the situation closely. “Any use of violence to stifle peaceful political expression is unacceptable,” said a U.S. State Department spokesperson.

What’s Next for Bangladesh?

Observers warn that Bangladesh is entering a volatile phase marked by power vacuums, street protests, and factional conflicts. With general elections expected in 2026, student movements and political parties are likely to intensify their campaigns, and the Hasina versus anti-Hasina divide is set to shape the coming months.

Meanwhile, local residents in Dhaka are caught in the crossfire. “We’re afraid to send our kids to school or go to work,” said a local shopkeeper, whose business was looted during the clash.

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