Against Power Abuse in Bangladesh: the Red Monsoon
The quota reform movement in Bangladesh that began in June 2024 rapidly turned into a nationwide uprising, culminating in the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Photographer Turjoy Chowdhury documented the protests in the streets of Dhaka.
Initially, student-led protests targeted a controversial quota system in government jobs, seen as discriminatory and unfair. As frustration grew, the movement expanded, drawing thousands of people demanding greater transparency and merit-based hiring. By August, the protests escalated with demands expanding beyond quota reform, to call for the resignation of Sheikh Hasina.
Police move in as protesters gather on the streets of Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Smoke rises from the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University premises after a clash between pro-government activists and anti-government protestors during a protest in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
A mural of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is seen vandalized by protesters in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Islamic activists take part in a protest to support the students and demand justice in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
A young protester writes 'Democracy' on the chest of a rickshaw puller during a protest against Hasina regime in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
The widespread unrest resulted in over 300 deaths, most of whom were caused by gunshots fired by the police and other government forces. Under immense pressure, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country and an interim government was appointed to restore order, marking a significant shift in Bangladesh's political landscape.
Broken bricks lie scattered on the street where a clash occurred between protesters and security forces in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Police detain a student who attempted to stand in front of the High Court to join the 'March for Justice' in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Young protesters continue their demonstration against the Hasina regime, standing in the rain in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
People celebrate the resignation of the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina by waving flags in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
A student chants slogans demanding justice for the victims killed and arrested during the nationwide quota reform protest in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
You can see more of Turjoy Chowdhury’s work on his website.
