The Take

Investigating Sheikh Hasina’s final days in Bangladesh

Aug 5, 2025
Tamara Khandaker, a producer for Al Jazeera Investigates with deep ties to Bangladesh, and Prapti Taposhi, a passionate activist from Jahangirnagar University, dive into the tumult that led to Sheikh Hasina's fall from power. They discuss the student protests sparked by controversial government policies, the symbolic decline of Gono Bhavan, and the powerful voices of dissent that emerged during this critical time. Their firsthand experiences shed light on the resilience of citizens fighting for justice and equality in the face of oppression.
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INSIGHT

Repression Strengthens Resistance

  • Sheikh Hasina’s government used lethal force and propaganda to suppress protests.
  • Despite repression, public resistance was resilient and ultimately unstoppable.
INSIGHT

Quota System Sparks Protests

  • A government job quota system sparked broad student protests in Bangladesh.
  • The quota was seen as rewarding political loyalty rather than merit.
INSIGHT

'Rajakar' Insult Ignites Fury

  • Sheikh Hasina's use of the offensive term ‘Rajakar’ deeply insulted student protesters.
  • This insult united and intensified the protest movement against her regime.
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