The Nepal Weekly 
October 29, 2024The Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL), the student wing of Awami League (AL) led by former Prime Minister, enjoyed influence in Bangladesh for over 15 years. However, following a student-led movement in August that led to exit of Hasina government and her subsequent exile, BCL members now find themselves in hiding fearing actions by the interim government.
A report by Al Jazeera says that over 50,000 BCL cadres are struggling to continue their tertiary education. On October 23, the Bangladesh government led by Muhammad Unus banned BCL, labelling it a “terrorist organisation.” The home ministry cited BCL’s history of violence, harassment, and exploitation of public resources over the past 15 years. A science student told media, “Not long ago, I was a voice of authority here. Now, I am running around like a fugitive with no probable future.” This sentiment reflects the real situation many BCL affiliates are facing.
The unrest began in July when students protested against a controversial reservation system in government jobs, which they claimed favored supporters of the ruling party. Although the top court abolished the quota, the protests escalated, calling for the removal of Hasina’s government due to alleged human rights violations. Protesters stormed government buildings, including Hasina’s residence on August 5, forcing her to flee the country.
Violence continued even after Hasin’s departure, with Awami League members and students becoming targets. Many went into hiding or were detained. Shahreen Ariana and Saikat Raihan, BCL leaders from Rajshahi University, were arrested on October 18 on alleged “forged charges,” as reported by their families. Violence against Awami League-affiliated students spread, with incidents like the beating death of Shamim Ahmed and the mob killing of Masud. The interim government declared BCL banned under the Anti-Terrorism Act 2009, effective from October 23. The law was originally enacted by Hasina’s administration.
