Nahid Islam: The man behind the downfall and ouster of Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina
Who is Nahid Islam: Following nearly a month of widespread anti-quota and anti-government protests in Bangladesh, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country on Monday (August 6, 2024). These protests, initially sparked by demands for changes in Bangaldesh's quota policy for the families of freedom fighters, soon turned into a broader anti-government movement calling for Sheikh Hasina's resignation. The protests were led by student leader Nahid Islam.
Who is Nahid Islam?
Nahid Islam is a student in the sociology department at Dhaka University. He had gained recognition for his work as a human rights defender. He serves as one of the national coordinators for the 'Students Against Discrimination' Movement.
This student-led protest seeks reforms to the quota system in government jobs in Bangladesh, which was reinstated by the Supreme Court in June 2024, allotting 30% of positions to descendants of war veterans and freedom fighters. The movement argues that the quota system is discriminatory and politically manipulated.
Nahid Islam has been quite outspoken against Sheikh Hasina's party, the Awami League, describing them as "terrorists" on the streets. In a speech at Shahbagh, he declared that students had "picked up sticks today" and were ready to "take up arms" if necessary.
On July 19, 2024, Nahid Islam was allegedly abducted by at least 25 men in casual clothes from a house in Sabujbagh. He was blindfolded, handcuffed and tortured during interrogations about his involvement in the protests. He was found unconscious and battered under a bridge in Purbachal two days later.
Nahid was kidnapped again on July 26, 2024, from Gonoshasthaya Nagar Hospital in Dhanmondi. People claiming to be from various intelligence agencies, including the Dhaka Metropolitan Police's Detective Branch, took him away. The police have, however, denied any involvement.
- With inputs from agencies
