(MENAFN) On Monday, Bangladeshi authorities partially restored internet services as the country saw a significant increase in anti-government protests, including a major "long march" planned for the capital, Dhaka. Initially, internet services across the nation were completely shut down in response to the escalating unrest. However, while broadband internet has been partially restored, mobile internet services remain suspended, according to reports from Anadolu.

In response to the situation, Bangladesh’s military chief, Waker-uz-Zaman, is expected to address the nation shortly. The renewed wave of protests on Sunday, which has led to significant unrest, is driven by calls for the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Reports from hospital sources indicate that at least 93 people have been killed in the violence.

The protests, largely organized by students, had planned a long march to Dhaka on Monday to further their demands. In an effort to prevent the march, the government has imposed an indefinite curfew in the city. Prime Minister Hasina has responded to the demonstrations with a stern warning, threatening to use a “heavy hand” against those she accuses of “terrorism” or causing “anarchy.” The unrest, which began in early July with demands for reforms in public employment, has now evolved into broader calls for Hasina’s resignation. On Sunday, students initiated a non-cooperation movement aimed at increasing pressure on the prime minister to step down.

MENAFN05082024000045015839ID1108517123