On 16 July 2024, widespread protests broke out across Bangladesh following the death of Abu Sayeed, a student of Begum Rokeya University in Rangpur, who was shot by police during demonstrations demanding quota reform. The incident, described as an act of defiance, quickly spread across the country, with students from public and private universities, colleges, and schools joining the movement. Violent clashes occurred in Dhaka, Chattogram, and other major cities, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries.

The protests were triggered by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s remarks on 14 July 2024, labeling quota reform activists as descendants of collaborators, which sparked outrage among university students. Demonstrations intensified after police and ruling party supporters attacked protesters at Dhaka University on 15 July. By 16 July, the movement had evolved into a nationwide anti-government uprising.

The government responded by closing educational institutions, imposing curfews, and shutting down internet and social media services. Despite these measures, the protests continued until Hasina reportedly fled the country on 5 August 2024, marking a turning point in Bangladesh’s political unrest.