Bangladesh Establishes Foundation to Support Families Affected by Violent Protests

Bangladesh has decided to establish a foundation to support families of those affected by recent violent student-led protests, which resulted in the ousting of the Sheikh Hasina government. Over 600 people were killed in the protests. The foundation will be headed by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and aims to provide medical and family support to the victims.

Bangladesh on Tuesday announced the establishment of a foundation to support the families of those killed and injured in recent unprecedented student-led protests, which ultimately led to the ousting of the Sheikh Hasina government.

Over 600 individuals, including 44 police personnel and at least 30 children, lost their lives since the student protests against a controversial quota system in government jobs began in July.

Following the massive protests, Hasina resigned and fled to India on August 5. Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, who took office on August 8, will lead the new foundation. The foundation will include representatives from the Interim Government, students, and families of the deceased and injured, according to a statement from Yunus' office.

"We can never forget the contributions of the students and people who sacrificed their lives and who were grievously wounded while participating in the protests against the dictatorship," Yunus stated. He emphasized the national duty to care for the affected families and the grievously wounded.

The Chief Adviser’s office indicated that specific arrangements for medical care and family needs would soon be announced, with government departments and officials dedicated to this task. The Bangladeshi diaspora is also encouraged to contribute to the foundation.

Yunus has been making significant decisions aimed at pacifying agitated citizens and reviving the economy. During a recent meeting, women leaders urged swift actions on treating the injured and establishing a judicial reforms commission. Yunus responded positively to these recommendations.

Meanwhile, multiple murder cases have been filed against Hasina, accusing her of responsibility for the deaths during the protests.