The political situation in Bangladesh has taken a dramatic turn with the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the assumption of power by Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman. This development comes amidst a backdrop of ongoing protests and violence in the country, with demands for Hasina’s resignation at the forefront.
The recent shutdown of 4G services by the Bangladesh government has further escalated tensions, as mobile operators were ordered to switch off their services once again. This move has significantly impacted internet connectivity in the country, with Netblocks reporting a drop in connectivity mainly affecting mobile networks. The decision to block access to social media sites has also been implemented, adding to the restrictions imposed on internet usage.
With over 131 million internet users in Bangladesh, the majority of whom rely on mobile internet services, the impact of these shutdowns is widespread. The repeated disruptions to internet services raise concerns about freedom of expression and access to information in the country.
The government’s justification for the internet blackout last month, citing „planned sabotage“ by protesters, has been met with skepticism from telecoms experts. The lack of concrete evidence to support this claim has raised questions about the true motives behind the shutdowns and the government’s handling of the situation.
The initial internet blackout in July was triggered by violent clashes during student protests against a new government jobs quota system. The subsequent protests demanding Hasina’s resignation have only intensified the unrest, leading to further casualties and a volatile political climate in the country.
As the situation in Bangladesh continues to unfold, it is essential to monitor developments closely and consider the implications of these actions on the democratic process and civil liberties in the country. The restoration of internet connectivity and the resolution of the political crisis will be crucial in determining the future direction of Bangladesh and its people.