Crude Bombs, Arson Attacks: Why Bangladesh Is on Edge Again, a Year After Sheikh Hasina’s Ouster

A year after the violent unrest that led to the ouster of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her escape to India, the country is once again reeling from political tension and violence. Reports from Dhaka and other cities confirm multiple crude bomb explosions and arson attacks, plunging the capital into chaos and fear ahead of a crucial court verdict in Hasina’s ongoing trial.

According to local media, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in parts of Dhaka has worsened due to fires from arson attacks, while schools have shifted to online classes and public transport services remain disrupted. The Awami League, the party formerly led by Hasina, has called for a nationwide lockdown in protest against what it calls a “politically motivated trial.”

Why Bangladesh Is Once Again on Edge

The current unrest coincides with the upcoming verdict from the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) of Bangladesh, which is set to rule on multiple charges against Sheikh Hasina — including crimes against humanity and murder related to last year’s deadly protests.

Authorities have deployed army troops, police in riot gear, and members of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) across the capital to prevent escalation.

Local reports indicate that five empty buses were torched in Dhaka, Munshiganj, Tangail, and Gopalganj — Hasina’s hometown. Security forces have cordoned off key government areas, including the ICT complex, as the verdict date approaches.

Violence Erupts in Dhaka Once Again

This week saw a string of crude bomb attacks across Dhaka. The first explosion occurred in front of the Grameen Bank headquarters, run by Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, according to The Daily Star.

Explosions were reported at 17 sites, including near St. Joseph School and College, where homes for teachers and priests were partially damaged. Following the blasts, buses were set ablaze in Shahjadpur and Merul Badda. So far, no casualties have been reported.

Eyewitnesses described empty streets and tense calm. “We are hearing all kinds of rumours, but like any other day, people are out on the streets. There’s no fear among us,” one commuter told a local TV station.

Public transport, however, has taken a major hit, with bus ridership dropping sharply as the Awami League’s lockdown took effect.

Government Response and Arrests

In a statement, Dhaka Police confirmed the arrest of 44 Awami League members this week for violating the government’s ban on political gatherings. Authorities have prohibited all rallies and public assemblies near government buildings and critical infrastructure.

Security analysts say the violence underscores Bangladesh’s deep political divide following Hasina’s ouster. Many see the recent escalation as a direct challenge to the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, who has been steering the country since August last year.

Hasina’s Trial and Upcoming Elections

The International Crimes Tribunal is expected to deliver its verdict on November 17, a ruling that could shape Bangladesh’s political landscape ahead of next year’s general elections.

Sheikh Hasina was removed from office on August 5 last year after weeks of violent protests that killed more than 800 people and injured over 14,000, according to official figures. A UN report released in February this year estimated that up to 1,400 people might have died during the unrest.

After fleeing to India, Hasina gave multiple interviews to Indian media outlets criticizing Muhammad Yunus and his administration — remarks that further strained relations between the former prime minister and the current government.

As Bangladesh awaits the tribunal’s verdict, tensions continue to rise, with fears that the coming days could see renewed violence and further instability across the country.