In Bangladesh, TV news broadcasts have been interrupted, and communication networks have disruptions amid a surge in student protests.

On Friday, television news channels in Bangladesh went off the air and telecommunications were widely disrupted amidst escalating student protests against a controversial government job quota system. The protests, which have led to nearly 32 deaths this week, have caused significant disruptions, with mobile services and internet connectivity largely unavailable.

The unrest, which began due to student dissatisfaction with the quota system, has been exacerbated by broader economic challenges such as high inflation, unemployment, and depleted foreign reserves. The protests have also highlighted political tensions related to the 1971 independence war, with accusations of historical collaboration resurfacing.

In response to the violence, the government reportedly deployed the army to maintain order, although this information has not been independently confirmed. Authorities had already cut some mobile services to quell the unrest, but disruptions have continued, affecting communication and media operations across the country.

Several official websites, including those of the central bank and the prime minister’s office, were hacked by a group calling itself “THE R3SISTANC3,” which condemned the government’s actions and called for continued resistance.

The ongoing protests have also impacted economic activities, with many businesses, including markets, operating at reduced capacity. The situation remains tense as the government and protesters remain at an impasse, with no immediate resolution in sight.