Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina promises punitive measures after violent protests in the country that have resulted in six deaths.
I will ensure that those who have committed murder, looting, and violence – whoever they may be – will receive suitable punishment, says Hasina in a televised address to the nation.
In addition to the dead, several hundred people have been injured in the recent unrest during the large demonstrations that have shaken Bangladesh's capital Dhaka. The violence has entailed a sudden escalation after students have been protesting for several weeks against a specific quota system for government jobs. They demand that the government instead introduce a merit-based system.
Violence broke out at the beginning of the week when demonstrators were attacked by government-loyal student groups. The unrest is taking place in a sensitive political climate since Hasina won a new term in office last winter after a disputed election process that was boycotted by the opposition.
