Bangladesh's interim government has reignited political tensions as it launched "Operation Devil Hunt," aimed at restoring law and order after unrest erupted surrounding the actions of the Anti-Discrimination Students Movement. Following clashes on February 7, 2025, where students opposed to the former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina alleged they were attacked by Awami League supporters, the operation is seen as both a response to violence and as part of the struggle between political factions vying for control.
The initial wave of violence took place during protests held by the Anti-Discrimination Students Movement, which accused Awami League figures, such as AKM Mozammel Haque, of orchestrated attacks against their activists. According to reports from the Home Ministry, around 15 students suffered injuries during these clashes, forcing many to seek medical treatment.
Arif Sohel, a member of the Anti-Discrimination Students Movement, condemned the prevailing violence, stating, "Even though the fascist Hasina has fled, her cohorts are still around us. We must handle the situation with restraint; under no circumstances can disorder be created." His words echo deep concerns about the violent deterioration of political discourse within the country, as the interim government grapples with its stability.
Meanwhile, the Dhaka Tribune cautioned against the growing trend of mob justice. Editor Zafar Sobhan remarked, "When mobs run amok ... we are all the poorer. If we are serious about becoming a 'better Bangladesh,' then the rule of law must be ensured." This sentiment captures the anxiety of many citizens who fear continual unrest might unravel the progress made following the protests against Hasina's administration.
Operation Devil Hunt is not merely about quelling immediate violence; it is also symbolic of the seismic shifts sweeping through Bangladesh's political fabric. The interim administration, headed by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, is tasked with restoring order and addressing the populace’s grievances against the Awami League’s lengthy rule. Yunus himself has called for "complete law and order" to be established, aiming to protect not only the properties of former leaders but also the rights of all citizens.
The tensions are not limited to simple protests; editorials and reports indicated widespread vandalism and retaliatory violence. Some Facebook accounts detailed how student activists had reportedly gathered at Haque's home to prevent looting, but misunderstandings prompted violence. Subsequent government actions to quell unrest include deploying army troops across the region.
On the ground, the police have faced significant criticism for their response—or lack thereof—to attacks. Eyewitness accounts claimed law enforcement did little to intervene as mobs clashed, raising troubling questions about the state’s control over the situation. The Gazipur police department has since acted to suspend the officer-on-duty for neglecting their duty during the aggressive encounters.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, political analysts and opposition leaders are now raising alarms about the currents of vigilantism gaining traction as citizens seem to take law enforcement matters personally. The BNP, or Bangladesh Nationalist Party, has warned the interim government about the potential consequences of allowing such mob rule to rear its head, urging them instead to stabilize the situation to prevent any resurgence of “fascist elements.”
Editorials from Bangladesh's major newspapers are reflective of the larger dissent brewing within civil society as they call for immediate reforms and sustainable democratic practices. The Dhaka Tribune emphasized, "We cannot have mobs descend upon and demolish property, whatever may be the perceived provocation." Such reflections indicate growing disillusionment with governance and the method of dissent expressed by the public.
The situation continues to evolve with protests against the Awami League showing no signs of abatement. Amidst the unrest, marchers have recently targeted properties associated with Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League, including the historic 32 Dhanmondi residence where the nation's founder, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, once lived. This residence has become more than just bricks and mortar; it symbolizes the legacy of the country and its leadership struggles.
Hasina herself is currently out of the country, having fled to India since her ouster last year following massive student protests. Amidst calls for her trial pertaining to corruption and human rights abuses during her tenure, political futures now hang precariously, reliant on the ability of the interim government to navigate this crisis.
Overall, as Bangladesh continues to walk the tightrope of unrest, the implementation of Operation Devil Hunt remains pivotal. The interim government faces scrutiny over its response tactics and overarching political strategies as they seek to maintain stability. Yet as the populace grapples with fears of returning to authoritarian rule, its commitment to the rule of law will likely be tested.