Dhaka
In Bangladesh, over 1,000 people have been reported killed and more than 400 blinded during recent protests against the Sheikh Hasina-led government, according to Health Adviser Nurjahan Begum. Begum revealed these figures during a visit to the Central Police Hospital in Rajarbagh, Dhaka, where she spoke with injured police personnel and assessed their conditions.
The protests, which began in mid-July over a controversial job quota system, escalated into violent clashes following a crackdown by the police. The unrest has evolved into an anti-government movement demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Begum noted that many of the injured police officers had severe head and leg injuries. Efforts are being made to address the vision loss among protesters through collaboration with the American-based Sheba Foundation. The foundation plans to send doctors to Bangladesh for treatment at various eye hospitals across the country.
The government has committed to covering the treatment costs for the injured and providing support for the families of those who have died. Discussions with donor organizations and the World Bank are underway to bring in additional medical expertise.
