Bangladesh’s Student Uprising Takes Political Shape, New Party Sparks Controversy

In a significant political development, Bangladeshi students who played a crucial role in last year’s uprising against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina have announced the formation of a new political party, reported The Hindu.

The newly formed Ganatantrik Chhatra Sangsad (Democratic Student Council) consists of key figures from Students Against Discrimination (SAD), the influential group that spearheaded the mass movement that led to Hasina’s ouster in August 2024.

Internal Rifts and Clashes Among Student Groups

Despite their shared role in the revolution, the student factions remain sharply divided over representation and political direction. 

The formation of Ganatantrik Chhatra Sangsad has not been without controversy, as some members of SAD have accused the group of betraying the spirit of the movement. 

This discord led to physical clashes when the new party’s name was unveiled on Wednesday (26 February 2025).

Further complicating the political landscape, another faction of SAD leaders—including those who joined the interim government following Hasina’s removal—plans to launch a separate political party today (28 February).

Inclusion of Awami League-Affiliated Students

The Ganatantrik Chhatra Sangsad has also incorporated students who were formerly aligned with the youth wing of Hasina’s Awami League.

However, its leadership has been cautious about whom they accept into the fold.

"While accommodating students from the Awami League, we ensured that none of them were involved in mass murder or torture during the revolution," said Zahid Ahsan, one of the key leaders of the new party, was quoted as saying by The Hindu.

He emphasised that the group remains committed to protecting student rights and ensuring that the ideals of last year’s movement are upheld.

Hasina in Exile as Political Climate Heats Up

Meanwhile, Sheikh Hasina remains in self-imposed exile in India, where she has refused to comply with an arrest warrant issued by Dhaka on charges that include crimes against humanity.

Her removal from power marked the end of her long rule, but Bangladesh has since been embroiled in political instability, with more than 150 people injured in recent clashes between rival student factions.

Caretaker Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus has confirmed that general elections are expected to take place in late 2025 or early 2026.

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