Bangladesh student protests surge after Abu Sayed’s death, leading to government’s fall

On 16 July 2024, police shot Abu Sayed, a 23‑year‑old English student at Begum Rokeya University in Rangpur, as he stood with his arms outstretched. Video of the killing spread online and became a rallying symbol.

The incident triggered a surge in the anti‑discrimination quota‑reform movement, with protests expanding to Dhaka and other cities, university closures, internet shutdowns around campuses, and attacks on students. Six people were killed that day, and the UN estimates up to 1,400 deaths through July‑August.

The sustained pressure forced the Awami League government to resign on 5 August 2024, ending Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s administration. The uprising highlighted long‑standing grievances over state‑led intimidation and a pervasive “culture of fear” in Bangladesh.