Bangladesh is on the verge of lifting its curfew as the situation in the country stabilises. Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan announced on Wednesday, July 31, that the curfew would soon be lifted, reflecting a positive shift towards normalcy.
Curfew Easing: What’s the Latest?
Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan’s statement comes as a relief to many affected by the ongoing restrictions. Here’s what we know:
- Normalcy Restored: The Home Minister assured that the situation is improving and that the curfew will be withdrawn shortly.
- Military Withdrawal: The army will be returning to their barracks as part of the plan to restore normalcy.
Key Points from the Minister’s Announcement
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UN Coordination: The Home Minister addressed concerns raised by Gwyn Lewis, UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh. Lewis had inquired about the use of UN-marked Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs).
- Clarification: Asaduzzaman Khan clarified that any use of APCs with UN insignia was unintentional and that these vehicles were no longer in operation.
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Teenage Fatality: The minister also responded to questions about the killing of a teenager.
- Teen’s Identity: The teenager, identified through school records and video evidence, was seventeen and a half years old.
- Crime Involvement: He was involved in the killing of a police officer in Jatrabari. The boy is now in a correction centre as per the law.
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Law Enforcement Actions: The minister defended the actions of police and security forces.
- Use of Force: He explained that police had to use force, including tear gas and live ammunition, to protect lives and property.
- Miscreants’ Tactics: Miscreants allegedly used children as shields and threw bricks and crude bombs, escalating the violence.
Looking Forward: What Does This Mean for Bangladesh?
The imminent lifting of the curfew is a significant development for Bangladesh. Here’s what to expect:
- Return to Normalcy: The removal of the curfew will help in normalising daily life and economic activities.
- Focus on Recovery: As the curfew lifts, the government will likely focus on rebuilding and addressing any remaining issues from the unrest.
Real-Life Implications and Stories
For many Bangladeshis, the curfew has been a challenging period. The announcement brings hope for a return to normalcy. People are looking forward to resuming their daily routines and businesses, which have been disrupted.
- Economic Impact: Businesses, particularly small enterprises, have struggled under the curfew’s restrictions. The lifting of the curfew will be a relief for many struggling to stay afloat.
- Community Sentiment: There’s a strong sentiment among the public for peace and stability. The easing of restrictions is seen as a step towards achieving that.
Final Thoughts
The curfew’s removal marks a turning point for Bangladesh as it moves towards stability and recovery. The government’s actions, including addressing UN concerns and clarifying the use of APCs, reflect a commitment to transparency and restoring normalcy.
In summary, Bangladesh is poised to lift the curfew soon, with the Home Minister’s assurances signalling a positive shift. This move is expected to ease tensions and help the country return to a state of normalcy.
Photo credit: Prothom Alo
