Bangladesh In Crisis: Sheikh Hasina Resigns After Army's 45-Minute Ultimatum | Key Updates

Sheikh Hasina resigned as Prime Minister of Bangladesh and fled the country on Monday following violent clashes that have resulted in over 300 deaths.

The army, which has assumed control to establish an "interim government," gave her 45 minutes to step down.

Hasina departed on a military aircraft heading to an undisclosed "safe space."

1. Reports suggest London as a possible destination, with a stopover in Delhi expected.

2. Indian security agencies are tracking a C-130 aircraft believed to be carrying the former Prime Minister and her entourage.

3. The protests began late last month over a quota system that reserves up to 30 per cent of government jobs for families of veterans from Bangladesh's 1971 war against Pakistan.

4. The demonstrations quickly evolved into a broader anti-government movement, drawing support from various segments of society, including celebrities.

5. On Sunday, clashes between police and protesters resulted in 100 deaths and over 1,000 injuries. The violence escalated dramatically after a confrontation between students and police.

6. The Supreme Court of Bangladesh had scaled down the reservations to 5%, leading student leaders to pause protests temporarily. However, they resumed when their demand for the release of detained leaders was ignored.

7. In a televised address, Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced the formation of an "interim government" and urged protesters to cease their activities. He stated, "There is a crisis. I have met Opposition leaders and we have decided to form an interim government to run this country. I take all responsibility and promise to protect your life and property. Your demands will be fulfilled. Please stop the violence."

8. Earlier in the day, protesters stormed Gonobhaban, the Prime Minister's residence in Dhaka. By then, Hasina had already fled with her younger sister Sheikh Rehana in a military helicopter. Hasina had wanted to address the nation but was advised against it due to security concerns.

9. India's Border Security Force (BSF) is on high alert along its 4,096 km border with Bangladesh. Field commanders have been instructed to take positions "on ground" as tensions continue to rise.