Death toll rises to 114 as Bangladesh cracks down on demonstrators

The crackdown has resulted in a communications blackout and a rising death toll, with reports of over 100 killed.

The demonstrations began peacefully after a court ruling reinstated a quota reserving 30% of government jobs for war veterans' families. However, rising food prices, high unemployment, and economic hardship fueled broader participation in the protests.

With protests turning violent, the government implemented a near-total internet blackout and deployed soldiers alongside police to enforce a curfew. The crackdown has resulted in the arrest of opposition leaders, activists, and protest organizers.

Hospitals report a surge in casualties, with the death toll exceeding 114.  Protesters demand accountability for the violence before resuming talks with the government. 

The protests pose the biggest challenge to Prime Minister Hasina's re-elected government.  While a court suspended the quota reinstatement, the future of the protests and the country's stability remain uncertain. (ILKHA)