Bangladesh’s interim government announced today that it will establish a foundation to support the wounded and the families of those affected by the recent student-led protests that led to the downfall of the Sheikh Hasina government. Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus will head the new foundation.
The protests, which began in mid-July over a controversial quota system for government jobs, resulted in significant casualties. Over 600 people, including 44 police personnel, have lost their lives as a result of the unrest.
According to a statement from the Chief Adviser’s official X account, “The government has decided to set up a Foundation to support the wounded and the families of those who participated in the student-led revolution in July-August 2024.” The foundation will be led by Professor Muhammad Yunus and will include several Advisers from the Interim Government, student representatives, and family members of the deceased and injured. Details regarding the foundation’s operations will be announced soon.
The protests, which culminated in Sheikh Hasina’s resignation on August 5, led to her fleeing to India. An interim government was subsequently formed, with 84-year-old Yunus appointed as Chief Adviser.
In the aftermath of the protests, more than a dozen murder cases have been filed against Hasina, accusing her of responsibility for the deaths of students and civilians during the police crackdown earlier this month.
