36th July
The July-August 2024 revolution in Bangladesh, also known as the "Youth Uprising" or "Monsoon Revolution," stemmed from long-standing grievances against Sheikh Hasina's fascist dictatorship. Since 2009, her administration has experienced increasing criticism for corruption, authoritarianism, and election manipulation. However, the revolution was sparked by a student-led protest movement demanding amendment to the government's job quota system. The first wave of protests began in mid-July 2024, spearheaded by students who demanded revisions to the civil service quota system, which they believed unfairly favored pro regime groups. The protests mirrored larger dissatisfaction with the fascist government's policies and its treatment of education and employment opportunities. As the protest spreads, the fascist government reacted harshly, imposing a "shoot-on-sight" order and cracking down on demonstrators. The deaths of nearly 1000 demonstrators during these violent clashes, combined with the use of military and police force, sparked nationwide indignation. As a final resort, fascists sent an SOS to India, and India responded by dispatching RAW operatives to suppress the revolution, just as they had in Kashmir. Aside from political complaints, economic considerations were crucial. Bangladesh was dealing with growing inflation (particularly food costs), corruption scandals, and a faltering economy. Many believed that Fascist Hasina had not addressed these concerns, and public unrest mounted alongside the protests.
By August 2024, what began as a student-led campaign had grown into a national rebellion. Artists, professionals, and members of the general public joined in, demanding not only quota reform, but also the resignation of the entire government. The fascist tried to crush the protests using disproportionate force. Coward Hasina resigned and fled to India on August 5, 2024, after facing rising pressure from large rallies and civil upheaval. The military promised to form an interim government and examine the violent suppression of protestors. This revolution is crucial not only for ending fascist Sheikh Hasina's long reign, but also for demonstrating the ability of youth-led movements in bringing about political change in Bangladesh. . It marked a turning point in the geopolitical landscape of south-east Asia, beginning the end of Indian hegemony across the region.
