Kathmandu— Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has appealed to the international community to support her country’s 'struggle' for democracy, addressing a virtual press event organized by the Foreign Correspondents Club of South Asia in New Delhi. She emphasized that stability in Bangladesh is crucial not only for the nation but also for the broader region.

Hasina's Plea for Stability

Sheikh Hasina stressed the importance of a stable Bangladesh, stating it matters for South Asia, the Bay of Bengal, and all countries that value democracy. She argued that the unrest in July-August 2024 was not a peaceful student movement but an organized campaign aimed at regime change. 'From the beginning, my government tried to resolve the issue peacefully,' Hasina said, adding that behind the scenes, groups were working to turn students' demands into violent political instruments.

Charges of Organized Violence

Hasina alleged that the demonstrations escalated into widespread killings, arson, and attacks on public infrastructure. She claimed that after her removal, Awami League leaders faced systematic persecution, with thousands killed or arrested. 'Symbols associated with Bangladesh’s 1971 Liberation War were vandalised,' she said, adding that members of minority communities and journalists were targeted.

International Concerns Raised

Sheikh Hasina's son Sajeeb Wazed questioned the United Nations' casualty figures from the unrest, noting discrepancies between UN estimates and government reports. He also criticized legal immunities granted to protesters by the current regime, calling it unprecedented and against human rights norms.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.