Unrest unlimited: On the crisis in Bangladesh

Context & The Gist

The article discusses the deteriorating situation in Bangladesh following the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in July 2024. Recent violence, triggered by the assassination of a youth leader involved in the uprising against Hasina, highlights a surge in Islamist extremism, mob rule, and attacks on media and minorities. The author argues that the current interim government led by Muhammad Yunus is failing to restore order and lacks the legitimacy to address the crisis effectively.

The central thesis is that Bangladesh is spiraling into near-anarchy due to a combination of factors: the fallout from Hasina’s authoritarian rule, the resurgence of Islamist groups, and the inability of the current leadership to establish law and order. The article warns that the opportunity for a transition to a more inclusive and democratic Bangladesh is being squandered.

Key Arguments & Nuances

• Hasina’s Legacy: While acknowledging Hasina’s authoritarianism as a contributing factor to the initial unrest, the article emphasizes that her removal hasn’t led to positive change.
• Rise of Islamist Influence: The lifting of the ban on Jamaat-e-Islami and the growing influence of Islamist forces are identified as key drivers of the current instability.
• Failure of the Interim Government: Muhammad Yunus is criticized for failing to contain Islamist groups and for lacking the authority to effectively govern.
• Anti-India Sentiment: The article notes the amplification of anti-India sentiments by Islamist forces, potentially complicating regional dynamics.
• Breakdown of Law and Order: The attacks on media outlets (Prothom Alo, The Daily Star), cultural centers, and the lynching of a Hindu man demonstrate a complete breakdown of law and order.

UPSC Syllabus Relevance

• GS Paper II: International Relations – India’s Neighborhood Policy, Bangladesh’s internal political dynamics, and its impact on regional stability.
• GS Paper II: Governance – Issues related to political instability, law and order, and the role of state institutions.
• GS Paper III: Internal Security – The rise of extremism and its implications for regional security.

Prelims Data Bank

• Jamaat-e-Islami: A conservative political party in Bangladesh, often associated with Islamist ideology. It was banned after the 2014 elections but has since had the ban lifted.
• Sheikh Hasina: Former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, ousted in July 2024.
• Muhammad Yunus: Nobel Peace Prize laureate and current head of the interim government in Bangladesh.
• July 2024 Uprising: A period of widespread protests against Sheikh Hasina’s government.

Mains Critical Analysis

The crisis in Bangladesh presents a complex interplay of political, social, and security challenges. A PESTLE analysis can help understand the situation:

• Political: The power vacuum created by Hasina’s ouster, the resurgence of banned Islamist groups, and the lack of legitimacy of the current government are major political issues.
• Economic: Underlying economic grievances, such as unemployment and corruption, contribute to the unrest.
• Social: Deep-rooted social divisions, including religious polarization and tensions between communities, are being exploited by extremist groups.
• Technological: The use of social media to spread misinformation and incite violence is a growing concern.
• Legal: The breakdown of the rule of law and the impunity with which extremist groups operate are critical legal challenges.
• Environmental: While not directly mentioned in the article, environmental factors like climate change and resource scarcity can exacerbate existing tensions.

The core issue is the failure to establish a stable and inclusive political order after Hasina’s fall. The lifting of the ban on Jamaat-e-Islami has emboldened extremist groups, leading to a surge in violence against minorities and political opponents. The current leadership appears unable to address these challenges effectively, creating a dangerous cycle of instability.

The implications are far-reaching. Continued instability in Bangladesh could have significant regional consequences, including increased refugee flows, the spread of extremism, and heightened tensions with India. The lack of a legitimate government also undermines the prospects for economic development and social progress.

Value Addition

• International Crimes Tribunal (ICT): The ICT in Bangladesh has been criticized for its lack of impartiality and due process, particularly in cases involving political opponents of the government.
• India’s Role: India faces a delicate balancing act in Bangladesh. While it has historically maintained close ties with the Awami League, it must also engage with other stakeholders to promote stability and prevent the country from descending into chaos.
• Quote: “The only viable path forward lies in inclusive elections with the participation of all the major political parties.” – The Hindu Editorial

Context & Linkages

Hasina death sentence is a travesty of justice

This article provides crucial background on the political climate leading up to the current crisis. The death sentence handed down to Sheikh Hasina by a partisan tribunal highlights the vindictive nature of the post-Hasina regime and the lack of due process. It underscores the deep political divisions within Bangladesh and the challenges to establishing a fair and impartial justice system.

Sheikh Hasina needs to take responsibility. But Mohammad Yunus regime raises concerns

This article builds on the previous one, questioning the effectiveness of the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government. It points to the lack of progress on justice and reforms, raising concerns about the future of Bangladesh. This context is vital for understanding the current article’s criticism of Yunus’s leadership.

The Way Forward

• Inclusive Elections: Holding free and fair elections with the participation of all major political parties is essential for restoring legitimacy and establishing a stable government.
• Strengthening State Capacity: Rebuilding state institutions, particularly the police and judiciary, is crucial for restoring law and order.
• Countering Extremism: Implementing a comprehensive strategy to counter Islamist extremism, including addressing the root causes of radicalization and promoting religious tolerance.
• Regional Cooperation: India and other regional stakeholders should engage constructively with Bangladesh to promote stability and prevent the country from becoming a haven for extremist groups.
• Protecting Minorities: Ensuring the safety and security of minority communities is paramount.