KATHMANDU: In the wake of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation and departure, some US politicians have demanded penalties against Bangladeshi authorities. This appeal follows violent riots and rallies in Bangladesh that intensified following student-led demonstrations against government employment quotas. At least 300 people were reported to have died as a result of Hasina's government's alleged use of excessive force against protestors, which sparked strong criticism of her administration.

On Thursday, Nobel Peace laureate Muhammad Yunus took office as the head of an interim government tasked with holding elections in Bangladesh. The official welcoming of this change was extended by the U.S. government, which also backs Yunus's appeal for national peace and stability. 

U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen and other congressional Democrats have urged the Biden administration to punish Bangladeshi officials, including Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and Obaidul Quader, for their roles in the violent suppression of demonstrators. Holding those responsible for stifling dissent accountable is the aim of this action.

Protests have persisted since Hasina left office, with demands to remove further members of her cabinet. After leading Bangladesh for fifteen years, the former prime minister escaped to New Delhi. In Bangladesh, her departure has sparked both joy and bloodshed, with attacks on her home and statues as well as acts directed towards minorities.